Jan. 9, 2024

Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun has set up a three-man committee to probe alleged misappropriation of N200 million at the state-owned College of Education, Ila-Orangun.

The governor’s media aide, Malam Olawale Rasheed, stated on Tuesday in Osogbo that Adeleke directed the committee to examine the allegation and ensure amicable resolution of the crisis it had generated.

Members of the committee are Mr Kazeem Akinloye, Chief of Staff to the governor, Mr Teslim Igbalaye, Secretary to the State Government and Mr Oluwole Adedipo, Commissioner for Education.

The Provost of the college, Prof. Jimoh Afolabi, and the Chairman of its Governing Council, Dr Peter Babalola, had been trading accusations over the alleged mismanagement of the N200 million belonging to the college.

The money was allegedly mismanaged within five months of the inauguration of the council by a third party working within the institution.

“I have read various statements and allegations emanating from Ila-Orangun College of Education.

“I have also been briefed about the conflict between the school’s management and its governing council.

“The committee is hereby directed to call a meeting of both parties.

“It is to review all issues including alleged financial malpractices within the college system and propose a comprehensive accountability and transparency system.

“Let me warn that anybody implicated in any wrongdoing, financial mismanagement or corrupt conduct will face heavy sanctions.

“I announce that I will not shield anybody no matter how highly placed.

“The committee is expected to report its findings and recommendations to the governor within two weeks,’’ Rasheed quoted Adeleke as saying at the committee’s inauguration. (NAN)