AIO Condemns the Suspension of Osun State Students, Demands Immediate Reinstatement and Accountability

Hon. Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin  (AIO), a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Boluwaduro, Ifedayo, and Ila Federal Constituency, has strongly condemned the recent suspension of some students of Ekiti State University, in affiliation with Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun following their peaceful protest against the abrupt hike in tuition fees. He described the move as a reckless abuse of authority and a shameful violation of democratic rights.

In a statement released on Wednesday, AIO faulted the school management for what he called an unjust, anti-people decision that insults the intelligence of Osun citizens. He stated that no responsible leadership should ever penalize students for expressing genuine concerns over a policy that directly affects their education and welfare.

“The protest was peaceful, organized, and driven by frustration from students who felt betrayed by an unannounced tuition increment,” AIO said. “Suspending them for that is nothing short of oppression. It is a direct attack on freedom of speech and peaceful assembly, both guaranteed under our Constitution.”

AIO noted that increasing school fees mid-session, after most students had already paid the approved amount, shows poor planning and total disregard for the realities of struggling families. He said such action paints a picture of insensitivity and detachment from the people’s hardship.

According to him, “Education should not be a privilege for the rich. When public institutions begin to act like private estates, the future of the common man is endangered.”

The APC chieftain further warned against politicizing the matter, saying attempts to intimidate students for political gain would backfire. “If this action is politically motivated as some allege, then those behind it must be ready to face the verdict of history. You can’t silence young people forever, their courage will outlive intimidation,” he added.

AIO therefore demanded immediate reinstatement of all suspended students and public accountability from the authorities responsible for this misjudgment. He said justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done now, not later.

He charged the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, to do the needful as the Chief Executive of the state and ensure that fairness and democratic values are not trampled upon under his watch.

“The governor must act, not as a politician, but as a leader of conscience,” AIO declared. “This is the time to prove that governance in Osun has a moral compass. The suspension order must be lifted immediately, and those responsible for this authoritarian display must be called to order.”

He called on civil society groups, NANS, and human rights defenders to remain resolute in defending the dignity of students across the state.

“Our youths must not be punished for demanding fairness,” AIO insisted. “If their voices are silenced today, our collective future will be silenced tomorrow.”

AIO concluded by affirming his solidarity with all Osun students and urged them to remain calm but firm in their pursuit of justice.

“This is not the time for empty promises,” he said. “It is time for leadership to rise, for reason to prevail, and for justice to be done.”

 *#The Media Unit*

*#TeamAIO*