By Stephen Adeshino, Akure
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the release of N1.1 billion as a special intervention fund to clear outstanding salary arrears owed to staff of Adekunle Ajasin University, in a move aimed at resolving the institution’s prolonged industrial dispute.
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, disclosed the development in a statement issued saying the intervention underscores the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and the restoration of normal academic activities at the state-owned university.
According to the statement, Governor Aiyedatiwa directed the Ondo State Ministry of Finance and the university management to ensure the immediate release and disbursement of the funds to eligible beneficiaries.
He also appealed to the university’s staff unions to suspend their ongoing strike and return to work in the interest of students and the continued growth of the institution.
“The intervention is specifically to offset outstanding salary arrears owed to staff of the institution and to bring an end to the ongoing industrial dispute in the institution,” the statement said.
It added that the governor had instructed the Ministry of Finance and the university management to ensure the prompt disbursement of the funds while urging the unions to resume work to safeguard students’ academic progress.
The state government said the financial intervention reflects its commitment to strengthening the education sector and improving workers’ welfare, stressing that a motivated workforce is essential to building a globally competitive university.
