The management of the University of Ilesa has debunked reports suggesting that its staff have gone unpaid for several months, describing the claim as false and malicious.
In a statement signed by Mr. Babatunde Fanawopo, Senior Assistant Registrar, Corporate Services and Information Unit, the university stated that the publication was a “deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of our fast-growing institution and discredit the unwavering commitment of the Osun State Government to education and human capital development.”
Fanawopo clarified that the university has been consistent and prompt in paying salaries to all verified and regularised staff since its establishment. He emphasized that the Osun State Government, under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has remained steadfast in supporting the university’s workforce and educational mission.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the University of Ilesa has been consistent and prompt in the payment of salaries to all duly verified and regularised staff,” the statement read. “The State Government has continued to demonstrate remarkable commitment to the institution and its employees.”
The university explained that some of the individuals claiming non-payment were likely newly engaged staff members who had not yet completed the required documentation and biometric verification processes necessary to be fully integrated into the government’s payroll system.
“It is important to note that, like every reputable organisation, the University operates within established administrative and regulatory frameworks,” Fanawopo said. “Newly engaged staff must undergo due documentation, profiling, and biometric verification before being fully captured on the government’s payroll. It is only after these processes are concluded that they are added to the payroll.”
He further highlighted that the Adeleke administration has demonstrated exceptional transparency, accountability, and goodwill toward the institution since its establishment. This, he said, includes the regularisation of over 400 temporary staff of the former Osun State College of Education, Ilesa, and the full settlement of outstanding allowances before the formal take-off of the university.
“The current administration has not only shown unmatched goodwill but has also laid a solid foundation for the university’s growth and sustainability,” Fanawopo added. “Governor Adeleke’s vision for education in Osun State is evident in his continuous investment in infrastructure, academic advancement, and staff welfare.”
Reaffirming its commitment to excellence, the university urged members of the public to disregard the false report, which it said was designed to cause unnecessary tension and undermine the institution’s progress.
“The University of Ilesa remains focused on its mandate to deliver quality education, uphold integrity, and contribute meaningfully to the intellectual and socio-economic development of Osun State,” the statement continued. “We therefore urge members of the public to disregard the malicious publication designed to sow discord and distrust.”
Fanawopo concluded by restating the institution’s dedication to accountability and continuous improvement, describing the University of Ilesa as a symbol of academic rebirth and integrity.
“The University stands tall today as a beacon of educational excellence and not of neglect,” he said. “We reaffirm our commitment to transparency, staff welfare, and the continuous progress of all categories of staff and students.”
The University of Ilesa, established by the Osun State Government to drive innovation and intellectual development, has continued to expand its academic programmes and infrastructure in line with its mission to produce globally competitive graduates.
