The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has refuted claims circulating on social media that she was attacked by protesting students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta. Addressing the rumors during a visit by the institution’s management led by Rector Arc. Koye Jolaoso, Salako-Oyedele clarified the events that unfolded during the student protest against a rumored new fee structure.
In a statement by MAPOLY’s Head of Public Relations and Protocol, Yemi Ajibola, the deputy governor explained that she encountered the protest while en route to Alamala for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony.
“My security team noticed the students and advised a detour. We changed our route without any incident.
I later returned home briefly to allow the crowd to disperse before resuming my journey,” she said.
Salako-Oyedele further emphasized that the reports of an attack were baseless. “If I had been attacked, I wouldn’t have attended the program.
Once informed that the students had dispersed, I proceeded as planned,” she clarified. She urged the public to verify social media reports, as the misinformation had caused unnecessary concern. Addressing the students, she encouraged peaceful resolution of grievances, highlighting the importance of dialogue in addressing their concerns.
Rector Arc. Koye Jolaoso apologized on behalf of the institution’s governing council, management, staff, and students for any inconvenience caused by the protest, which he described as peaceful.
“We sincerely apologize for any embarrassment the protest may have caused and seek your forgiveness as a mother,” Jolaoso said.
The delegation included key figures from MAPOLY’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 of campus staff unions.
