October 30, 2025

Osun Group Calls for Regulation of Fees in State-Owned Tertiary Institutions

The Osun Masterminds, a civil society organisation, has urged the Osun State Government to regulate tuition fees in state-owned tertiary institutions, warning that the current charges are becoming a barrier for students from low-income families.

Speaking at the group’s monthly media briefing in Osogbo on Wednesday, TOM Executive Director, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, expressed concern over fees being demanded by institutions such as the University of Ilesa (Unilesa) and Osun State University (UNIOSUN).

“We are troubled by tuition fees as high as N1.3 million being charged by state-owned institutions. This level of fees is not sustainable for students from struggling families and could limit access to higher education in Osun State,” Oyedokun-Alli said.

He appealed to the government to intervene and ensure that education remains accessible to the average citizen.

Oyedokun-Alli also commended the police for investigating alleged killings involving members of the Amotekun Corps in Akinlalu community. He called for thorough investigations and urged that all responsible parties face the full weight of the law.

In response, Osun State Commissioner for Education, Mr. Dipo Eluwole, said the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) had met with management of the affected institutions to address the issue.

“The students’ representatives met with the Vice-Chancellor of UNIOSUN, and the matter was settled. Regarding Unilesa, there was no arbitrary increase; the institution has maintained its existing fees,” he explained.

TOM has been active in mediating various issues in Osun State over the past three years. In August 2025, the group called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to convene a broad-based meeting of stakeholders to resolve the prolonged local government crises, which has stalled activities since February 17 due to disputes over council leadership.

Oyedokun-Alli emphasized that while the Supreme Court decision is critical, dialogue across political and religious lines remains essential for lasting peace in the state.