University of Ilesa Facing Challenges of Illegal Occupation, Land Disputes – Vice Chancellor

 

The Vice Chancellor of University of Ilesa, Taiwo Asaolu, has raised concerns over security challenges, illegal occupation of university land and the complex stakeholder dynamics confronting the institution.

Prof. Asaolu made the disclosure while delivering remarks at the Second Bursary and Internal Audit Annual Lecture of Elizade University held in Ilara-Mokin on Wednesday.

According to the Vice Chancellor, the university management is currently grappling with cases of illegal residents occupying parts of the campus and engaging in farming activities.

“As I’m speaking with you, we have illegal residents on our campus rearing goats, chickens and other animals. We have taken the Osun Rangers, the local security operatives, there to chase them away, but they are still there,” he said.

Prof. Asaolu also revealed that the institution is facing land disputes with individuals who claim ownership of the university land despite compensation previously paid to their families.

“We have land grabbers whose fathers have collected compensation. They said they didn’t know anything about it, so they want to retrieve the land. Not only do they want to retrieve the land, but they have also started construction, and these are people bold enough to take us to court,” he explained.

The Vice Chancellor further highlighted the influence of traditional institutions and other stakeholders in the development and administration of the university.

He noted that as a relatively new institution in Ijesaland, the university must constantly engage with traditional rulers and community stakeholders on matters such as recruitment, admissions and general administration.

“In Ijesa land, we have many traditional rulers, and when you talk about the University of Ilesa, the university belongs to them. So whatever you are doing—recruitment, admission and other decisions—you must reckon with them,” Asaolu said.

He added that the university is also managing diverse interests among its internal and external stakeholders, including students, parents, staff, management and host communities.

Describing the situation as complex, Asaolu said the institution has recruited staff and students from different backgrounds and unions, making governance and coordination more challenging.

“We are dealing with students, parents, management, staff, teachers and other stakeholders. It is not easy,” he said.

Despite the challenges, the Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the commitment of the university management to strengthening the institution and addressing the issues affecting its smooth operation.