Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, has firmly dismissed widespread reports circulating on social media alleging that she was attacked by protesting students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in Abeokuta.
Addressing the situation during a solidarity visit from the institution’s management team, led by Rector Arc. Koye Jolaoso, Salako-Oyedele took the opportunity to clarify the actual sequence of events that occurred during the protest. The protest was reportedly staged by the students in opposition to a rumored new fee regime proposed by the school.
In a statement released by Yemi Ajibola, the institution’s Head of Public Relations and Protocol, the Deputy Governor explained that the alleged incident happened while she was on her way to Alamala to attend the Armed Forces Remembrance Day event. According to Salako-Oyedele, her security team noticed a gathering of students and took immediate precautions.
“My security detail advised the driver to take a detour, which we did without any incident. I returned home briefly to allow the crowd to disperse before continuing my journey,” she clarified. The Deputy Governor emphasized that at no point was she or her convoy attacked during the incident.
She further stated, “If I had been attacked, I would not have attended the program at Alamala. But once I was informed that the students had dispersed, I proceeded with my schedule as planned.”
Salako-Oyedele used the opportunity to urge the public to be cautious about believing unverified social media reports, stressing that the rumors had caused unnecessary alarm. “Many people reached out to check on me after reading or hearing the news, but I assure you that the reports were baseless,” she added.
The Deputy Governor also encouraged the students to adopt peaceful and constructive methods for resolving their grievances, highlighting the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding as a way to address issues effectively.
During the visit, Rector Arc. Koye Jolaoso offered a heartfelt apology on behalf of the institution’s governing council, management, staff, and students for any inconvenience caused by the protest. He described the demonstration as peaceful and expressed regret over any embarrassment it may have caused.
“We came to apologize for any embarrassment caused by the protest and to seek your forgiveness as a mother,” Jolaoso said during the visit. He reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering peaceful interactions with the state government.
The delegation accompanying the Rector included key members of the institution’s leadership, such as Deputy Rector Dr. Yetunde Lanre-Iyanda, Registrar Mrs. Olubunmi Elewodalu, Polytechnic Librarian Alhaja Basirat Akintunde, Bursar Mrs. Folasade Madariola, FCA, and representatives from various campus staff unions.
Their visit underscored the institution’s commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with the state government while ensuring that the students’ concerns are addressed in a manner that promotes harmony and mutual respect.
