AAU Management Refutes Financial Impropriety Allegations, Urges Unity Amidst Demarketing Campaigns
The management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has refuted allegations of financial misconduct against its new Governing Council, dismissing them as unfounded and intended to harm the university's reputation.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has firmly denied recent allegations of financial misconduct directed at its new Governing Council, condemning the claims as false and an attempt by certain media platforms to damage the university’s reputation.
Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika, the Principal Assistant Registrar of Information, Communication, and Public Relations at AAU, addressed the allegations in a statement, describing them as a “misrepresentation of facts” and a “sponsored write-up intended to incite unnecessary concerns.”
Aladenika explained that these allegations were aimed at demarketing the institution and did not reflect the true state of affairs. “It’s unfortunate that some individuals have chosen to become instruments for divisive elements attempting to undermine AAU,” he stated.
Addressing the financial decisions under scrutiny, Aladenika clarified, “At the Governing Council’s inaugural meeting, members reviewed the university’s financial records and identified idle funds within several accounts. To maximize returns on these funds, the council opted for Globus Bank’s 15% interest rate offer, which is projected to generate at least ₦100 million in interest. This income will contribute towards alleviating financial burdens faced by the university.”
Aladenika called on stakeholders to verify information before accepting it as truth. “We urge everyone connected to AAU to disregard unfounded allegations and instead support the university’s advancement.”
Furthermore, Aladenika urged the leadership of AAU’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) chapter to foster a collaborative and understanding environment for the mutual growth of the institution. He acknowledged ASUU’s advocacy, noting that “life is about give-and-take,” and emphasized the importance of unity within AAU’s ecosystem, which includes various unions and associations working together toward shared goals.
Highlighting the recent initiatives of the new Governing Council, Aladenika pointed to the progress made within three months under the leadership of Council Chairman Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen. “The Governing Council has made strides in addressing the challenges inherited from the Special Intervention Team (SIT), including unpaid salaries, lack of staff promotions, and an unconducive work environment,” Aladenika said.
According to him, staff appraisals and promotions have resumed, payroll discrepancies have been addressed, and many who faced alleged victimization have received justice. The Truth and Reconciliation Panel is currently reviewing hundreds of petitions to resolve outstanding grievances.
Aladenika concluded by noting that the majority of the university community is pleased with the new council's efforts. “Over 90% of AAU’s staff and students express support and confidence in the Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen-led Governing Council. Rather than tearing down AAU, let us unite and work as an indivisible body to ensure the institution’s growth,” he added.
