Edo Governor Vows To Clear AAU’s Billions In Backlogged Salaries, Revive University Glory

According to Ireporter Online, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to address the longstanding challenges at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, including unpaid salaries, pensions, and other institutional issues inherited from previous administrations.

The governor made the commitment on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Eunice Eboserehimen Omonzejie, and her management team at the Government House in Benin City. Governor Okpebholo congratulated the Vice-Chancellor and her team on their appointments, noting that their presentation highlighted the magnitude of challenges facing the university.

“From what you have outlined, it is evident that Ambrose Alli University has been on life support. I commend the progress you have achieved since assuming office and assure you that this administration will support efforts to reposition the university and restore its lost glory,” he said.

On the issue of unpaid staff salaries, Governor Okpebholo described the prolonged non-payment as unfair and unacceptable, adding that the matter will be treated as a top priority project. “It is not right for people to work and not be paid. The accumulated salaries, pensions, and gratuities running into billions of naira will be addressed by this government,” he said.

The governor also acknowledged other challenges raised by the university, including deteriorating hostels, accreditation concerns, and infrastructure deficits in programmes such as Medical Laboratory Science. He urged management to ensure these critical needs are reflected in the upcoming budget proposals to facilitate effective solutions.

Professor Omonzejie explained that the delay in visiting the governor was due to a recently concluded accreditation exercise and a thorough assessment of the university’s condition. She described the institution as being in a “moribund state,” facing infrastructure gaps, unpaid staff obligations, and accreditation challenges.

The Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude for Governor Okpebholo’s interventions since taking office, citing increased monthly subventions, staff payroll restoration, support for graduating backlog medical students, improved security, and road construction support through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as key initiatives that have revived the university.

During the visit, Professor Omonzejie formally presented pressing needs requiring urgent attention, including unpaid salaries, pensions, union deductions, and infrastructure improvements such as lecture theatres and hostels, as well as facilities to enhance accreditation and expand student intake, particularly in the College of Medicine.

The visit was attended by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilo; Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu; and Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mrs. Sede.