In response to the controversy surrounding the reported misappropriation of ₦200 million at the state-owned College of Education, Ila-Orangun, Governor Ademola Adeleke has taken decisive action. A three-member committee has been established by the governor to thoroughly investigate the matter. The governor’s media aide, Malam Olawale Rasheed, announced this development on January 9, 2023, revealing that Governor Adeleke has instructed the committee to carefully scrutinize the allegations and work towards finding a resolution to the crisis affecting the educational institution.

The committee, composed of Kazeem Akinloye (Chief of Staff to the governor), Teslim Igbalaye (Secretary to the State Government), and Oluwole Adedipo (Commissioner for Education), has been given the responsibility of investigating the conflicting claims made by the college’s Provost, Prof. Jimoh Afolabi, and the Chairman of its Governing Council, Dr. Peter Babalola.

The ongoing dispute between these two key figures within the institution revolves around accusations of mismanagement of ₦200 million allocated to the college. These funds were purportedly misused within a five-month period following the inauguration of the council, with an unidentified third party allegedly involved.

Governor Adeleke, through his media aide, issued a stern warning, stating, “Let me warn that anybody implicated in any wrongdoing, financial mismanagement, or corrupt conduct will face heavy sanctions. I announce that I will not shield anybody no matter how highly placed.”

The committee has been given specific instructions to meet with both parties involved, thoroughly review all issues, including the alleged financial malpractices within the college system, and propose a comprehensive accountability and transparency system. Governor Adeleke emphasized that the committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations within a two-week timeframe.