By Kola Idiaro
The recent publications and commentaries surrounding the appointment of the Deputy Provost of Kwara State College of Education, Oro, have generated considerable public interest and emotional reactions.
While every stakeholder has the right to express opinions on issues affecting the institution, it is equally important that such opinions are guided by facts, institutional history, fairness, and objectivity rather than selective narratives capable of creating division within the College community.
This rejoinder therefore seeks to correct several misleading impressions deliberately created in recent publications and to place the historical realities of leadership appointments in Kwara State College of Education, Oro, in proper perspective.
THE COLLEGE BELONGS TO ALL SENATORIAL DISTRICTS
Kwara State College of Education, Oro, was originally known as Kwara State College of Education, Oro-Ilorin because the institution commenced academic activities in Ilorin before its eventual relocation to Oro.
From inception, the College has remained a state institution belonging to all the three senatorial districts of Kwara State and not the exclusive preserve of any particular region.
Consequently, leadership appointments within the institution have historically reflected contributions and participation from all parts of the state.
HISTORICAL FACTS OF LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTS
A careful examination of the leadership history of the College clearly disproves the current narrative suggesting domination by Kwara Central or marginalisation of any district.
EARLY YEARS OF THE COLLEGE
The pioneer Provost of the College, Dr. Peter Asun from Okene, Kwara North axis of old Kwara State (present-day Kogi State), served between 1981 and 1984.
Thereafter:
Late Professor Shehu Jimoh from Kwara Central served as Provost from 1984 to 1992.
During this same period:
Mr. T.O. Olabanji from Kwara South served as Registrar from 1984 to 2002 — an unprecedented 18-year tenure.
Mr. Z.O. Bamidele from Kwara South served as Deputy Provost.
Mr. D.D. Bayode from Kwara South served as Librarian.
Mr. D.O. Adeoye from Kwara South served as Bursar.
At that period, four out of the five principal management positions were occupied by officers from Kwara South, yet Kwara Central never raised petitions or embarked on campaigns of ethnic or sectional agitation.
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