ASUU rejects tenure extension for UNIOSUN VC
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Osun State University (UNIOSUN) has criticized the recent two-year extension of Vice-Chancellor Professor Clement Adebooye’s tenure by Governor Ademola Adeleke. The union contends that the Osun State University Establishment Law does not authorize such an extension for the position of Vice-Chancellor, raising questions about the legal foundation of the governor’s decision.
Dr. Wande Olaosebikan, the chairman of the UNIOSUN chapter of ASUU, communicated the union’s stance during an interview. He noted that the provisions outlined in the relevant laws specify tenure extensions for positions like the Registrar, Bursar, and Librarian, but do not include the Vice-Chancellor.
“We will not take immediate action based solely on media reports,” he said. “We are waiting for confirmation on whether Professor Adebooye has formally accepted the extension.” This matter was a topic of discussion during an ASUU congress held on Tuesday, where members analyzed the existing regulations governing university administration.
Governor Adeleke announced the tenure extension on Monday during the inauguration of the reconstituted Governing Council of UNIOSUN in Osogbo. He stated that the decision was made in the best interest of the university to strengthen its governance, ensure continuity, and prevent a leadership vacuum that could disrupt operations.
According to the governor, Adebooye initially declined the extension before ultimately agreeing to serve for an additional two years. “UNIOSUN is one of the enduring investments of the people of Osun State,” Adeleke remarked.
In response to the extension controversy, the Osun State House of Assembly has taken steps to amend the UNIOSUN Establishment Law, aiming to provide a legal framework for the Vice-Chancellor’s new tenure. The Assembly passed the Osun State University Establishment Amendment Bill 2026 during a plenary session on Thursday. The motion for the bill was introduced by Deputy Majority Leader Adekunle Emmanuel and supported by Sanni Areoye from Atakumosa East and Atakumosa West State Constituencies.
The proposed amendment was prompted by a letter from Governor Adeleke, dated July 27, 2026, requesting modifications to the law governing the university. The House Committee on Education mentioned that the legislation would also establish a framework for grants and scholarships for students.
Following thorough consideration, the amendment bill was approved, legitimizing the governor’s actions regarding the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure extension. Before the final vote, the Assembly convened as a Committee of the Whole for detailed discussion on the bill.
