Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has received commendation over his commitment to the monthly subvention of N500 million to the State-owned Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
The Management of the University was reacting to a press release attributed to Chris Osa Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary, Edo PDP Caretaker Committee saying “the governor has been faithful in his promises”.
The release, captioned “After three months, Okpebholo fails to redeem N500m monthly subvention pledge to AAU,” lacks substance and facts. Ordinarily, we wouldn’t respond to such politicized issues, but we must set the record straight.
According to Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika, Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information and Public Relations, “There’s no truth in the author’s claims. One would expect the author to have sought information from relevant government agencies, utilizing the Freedom of Information Act.”
“Governor Okpebholo’s administration has kept its promise regarding the N500 million monthly subvention. Despite the pronouncement being made mid-November 2025, the Governor ensured full payment for that month. Since then, the University has consistently received the monthly subvention.
Otunba Aladenika added, “We’ve been paid up to date, with no outstanding salaries. The February salary was paid today, March 7. The delay was due to technical issues, now resolved.”
We are appreciative that Governor Okpebholo’s administration has been faithful to its promises. The facts are verifiable, and we encourage stakeholders to seek accurate information.
It is also pertinent to note that, contrary to the author’s views, the recall of sacked and victimized staff was done in good faith to correct past injustices at the University. Notably, none of the staff members reinstated were accused, tried, and found guilty of ‘sex for marks.’ Allegations without proof are insufficient.
“Governor Okpebholo’s decision was a humane attempt to rectify the gross injustices, victimization, and lack of fair hearing perpetrated by the previous administration against the affected staff”.
