KWSG assures swift intervention in Ahman Pategi University crisis

The Kwara State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, has assured the management of Ahman Pategi University of the state government’s swift intervention in the ongoing crisis between the institution and its host community.

Receiving a delegation from the university, led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kazeem Alagbe Gbolagade, at her office in Ilorin, the Commissioner emphasized that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has created an enabling environment for businesses and private institutions, including universities, to thrive across the state.

“The administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is deeply committed to the protection of lives and property across the state.

“The governor has made substantial investments in the state’s security architecture, including the provision of modern security gadgets, patrol vehicles, and motorcycles to security operatives across all 16 local government areas,” Modibbo Kawu stated.

She stressed that the government would not stand by while a critical educational institution faces threats that could disrupt its academic calendar and operations.

“We will act immediately. The Ministry will set up a fact-finding committee to engage all relevant stakeholders, including the university management, host community leaders, and security agencies, to investigate the root causes of the crisis and recommend lasting solutions,” she assured.

Modibbo Kawu also reiterated the importance of maintaining a cordial relationship between institutions and their host communities, noting that such synergy is vital for sustainability and peaceful coexistence.

“We want our private institutions to flourish. The relationship with host communities must be one of mutual respect and understanding,” she added.

Earlier, Professor Gbolagade appealed to the Commissioner to intervene in the crisis, warning that it could escalate beyond control if not urgently addressed.

He revealed that the host community had demanded the resignation of all principal officers and the closure of the university, a move that could affect the upcoming academic semester.

He further alleged that thugs had recently stormed the campus, chased away security personnel, and threatened to prevent staff members from accessing the premises.

“This is why we are here, to seek the support of the Kwara State Government, since the university is situated within its jurisdiction. We believe in your leadership and capacity to resolve this crisis, which is why we have come to you,” Professor Gbolagade said.

Ahman Pategi University, located in Patigi, Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State, was established by the late politician and former member of the House of Representatives for Edu/Moro Constituency, Aliyu Ahman Bahago, following its approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in February 2021.

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