Members of Akoko South West Youth Forum (AKSWYF) have protested against indiscriminate sacking of over 35 indigenes of Akoko at the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH).
The Youth in their numbers were displaying different kind of placards at the protest in Akungba community with inscription such as “remove the School Council Chairman Prof. Akinbo Adesomoju now, no to dismissal of Akoko Indigenes and many others.
The acting president of the Akoko South West Youth Forum (AKSWYF) Joseph Ojo Oguntuyi in an interview with newsmen said the forum is concerned about discrimination and gross injustice perpetrated against our fellow community members, solely because they do not hail from the region where the university is located.
According to the Acting President, “We gather here today as representatives of the Akoko South West Youth Forum, united in our collective voice to express our strong dissent and demand immediate action regarding the indiscriminate sacking of Akoko indigenes from Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology.
“We however, call for the immediate removal of the School Council Chairman Prof. Akinbo Adesomoju who is responsible for instigating and endorsing these discriminatory practices. It is essential to hold accountable those who perpetuate injustice and prevent them from further damaging the well-being of our dear State.
“Reports has it that Prof. Adesomoju is fast becoming a clog in the wheels of progress of that institution having stayed longer than expected as not just a formal Vice Chancellor but as Council Chairman.”
“We firmly believe that employment decisions should be based on merit, competence, and a commitment to the overall progress and well-being of any institution. It is disheartening to witness the removal of hardworking individuals from their positions without due process, merely due to their geographical origin. This form of discrimination not only goes against the principles of fairness and equality but also undermines the growth and development of our State as a whole.”
“Today, we stand united to make the following demands; Immediate Reversal of Indiscriminate Sacking: We demand that Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology immediately reinstate all Akoko indigenes who have been unjustly dismissed. These individuals deserve the opportunity to continue contributing to the growth and success of the institution, based on their skills, qualifications, and dedication.”
“Inclusion of Akoko Indigenes in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba: We urge Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, a school Akoko people have peacefully played host to for over 2 decades to adopt a new policy that actively promotes the fair representation of Akoko indigenes within the institution.
“We appreciate Prof Olugbenga Ige the current Vice Chancellor of the institution for beginning to fashion out ways to achieve this. We believe in the importance of a diverse and inclusive academic environment that celebrates the contributions and talents of individuals from various backgrounds.”
“We emphasize that our demands are not fueled by a desire for revenge or retaliation but are rooted in our commitment to justice, equality, and the overall welfare of our community. We firmly believe that discrimination has no place in our society, and we strive for an environment where every individual is valued and given equal opportunities to succeed.”
“Should our demands be met with immediate effect, we hope to avoid the path of discrimination ourselves. It is disheartening to note that Adekunle Ajasin University currently exhibits a staff composition that heavily favors their own region, with a ratio of 70/30 against Akoko the host. We hope that our collective efforts can foster a more inclusive environment where Akoko indigenes are given fair representation and equal opportunities for employment and growth within the institution.”
“To the media, we kindly request your support and coverage of this protest and our demands. Your role in amplifying our voices and shedding light on these injustices is crucial for initiating positive change. We also call upon the security agencies to ensure the safety and peaceful conduct of this protest, as we exercise our constitutional rights to express our grievances.”
“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity. “We believe that by addressing these issues, we can build a stronger and more harmonious community that celebrates and value the contributions of all its members.
“We implore the authorities of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba, to heed our demands and work towards rectifying the injustices faced by our community members. We trust that by engaging in open dialogue and addressing these concerns, we can forge a path towards a fairer and more inclusive future.”
“We extend our gratitude to all the individuals and organizations who have shown their support for our cause. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of their origin, are upheld”.