Osun Health College: Provost Faults Allegations, Defends Management Structure

By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo

The Provost of Osun State College of Health Technology, Ilesa, Dr Lateef Olanrewaju Raheem, has rejected allegations of maladministration and financial irregularities levelled against him, describing them as unfounded and inconsistent with the actual situation at the institution.

Raheem, in a statement made available to journalists in Ilesa on Wednesday, said the allegations, which also bordered on student diversion, medical laboratory payments, staff recruitment and payroll manipulation, should be assessed against verifiable records and established administrative procedures.

He maintained that he had discharged his responsibilities in accordance with the laws, regulations and policies governing the institution.

“I wish to state categorically that the allegations levelled against me are unfounded, unsubstantiated and do not reflect the true position of affairs at the College,” he said.

The provost said he would address any official query or communication through the appropriate administrative channels, stressing that allegations should not be treated as established facts without a fair opportunity for the affected person to respond.

He also expressed readiness to cooperate with any legitimate investigation by the appropriate government authorities, describing transparency and accountability as essential to responsible public administration.

“On the issues concerning my tenure, succession arrangements and the composition of the College’s management, I maintain that all applicable laws, regulations and government directives should be respected,” he said.

Raheem’s response comes amid controversy over the institution’s management, including claims concerning the distribution of key positions and alleged irregularities in its administration.

Addressing the allegation that Iragbiji indigenes dominate major positions in the college, the provost released a breakdown of the institution’s management and departmental leadership, which he said showed representation from different communities.

According to the list, the Deputy Provost (Academics) is from Modakeke, while the Deputy Provost (Administration) and Deputy Registrar are from Ilesa. The Registrar is from Osogbo, the Bursar from Ijesa, and the Director of Works from Modakeke.

The Librarian and Auditor are from Odo-Otin, while the Director of Medical Services and Deputy Director of Works are from Ilesa. The Public Relations Officer is from Imesi-Ile.

He also listed the heads of four departments — Pharmacy Technician, Medical Laboratory Technician, Dental Surgery Technician and Health Information Management — as indigenes of Ilesa.

The provost urged stakeholders, staff, students and members of the public to avoid conclusions based on unverified claims, insisting that the appropriate authorities should be allowed to establish the facts where necessary.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the growth, stability and academic advancement of the college, as well as the development of the health education sector in Osun State.

Meanwhile, the Osun State Government has clarified that Governor Ademola Adeleke has not removed Raheem from office, stating that he remains the substantive provost of the institution.

In a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Rasheed Olawale, the government said issues surrounding the college’s management had been reviewed and that the governor was satisfied with the institution’s progress within available resources.

The government added that the renewal of Raheem’s appointment remained a decision for the governor, who is the appointing authority.