The APC New Media Directorate is alarmed by the distressing situation involving Ambrose Alli University (AAU) staff, who have been subjected to ongoing financial neglect by the Edo State Government. Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Obaseki are accused of diverting state resources, including the unpaid salaries of AAU employees, to fund the gubernatorial campaign of Asue Ighodalo.
During a recent meeting with the Labour Party gubernatorial candidate, AAU’s senior lecturers courageously voiced their plight, revealing that Obaseki owes them an astonishing 32 months of unpaid salaries. Some staff members have gone without pay for up to 25 months, with others suffering even longer. In a heart-wrenching plea, one senior lecturer insisted on being recorded on video, begging Obaseki to cease using Edo State’s money for election campaigns while AAU staff are left to struggle in silence.
It’s disgraceful that Governor Obaseki, after eight years of failing the people of Edo State, is now allegedly using AAU staff salaries to finance the PDP gubernatorial campaign. Even more troubling is that Asue Ighodalo, Obaseki’s economic adviser throughout these years, is now positioned as his successor, while AAU remains in financial disarray.
The drastic reduction in AAU funding—from over N270 million during Oshiomhole’s tenure to less than N100 million—represents a direct assault on the institution and its staff. This isn’t just an administrative oversight; it’s a serious moral failing. Governor Obaseki must be held accountable for this.
The people of Edo State deserve answers. Why has AAU been left to deteriorate? Why has the last remaining institution in Esanland been crippled? The families of AAU staff are suffering, and what was once a beacon of education is now a mere shadow of its former self.
Edo State will not tolerate the misuse of public funds for political gain. We demand immediate payment of the outstanding salaries owed to AAU staff and an end to the diversion of resources intended for the welfare of the people.
Signed,
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
APC New Media Directorate
