TASUED graduates kick over hike in alumni membership fee

Concerned graduates of the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State have dragged the leadership of the institution’s alumni to the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, demanding an explanation on how funds contributed by members were utilised.

The petition follows a protest by the graduates over the hike in the membership fee paid to the association.

A copy of the petition obtained by PUNCH Metro on Thursday urged Abiodun to prevail on the executive to explain how funds generated by the association in the last five years were expended.

The letter also demanded an immediate reversal of the alumni fee which was pegged at N20,000 a 400 per cent increase from the previous N5,000.

PUNCH Metro reported on Tuesday that the ex-students expressed displeasure at the increase in the alumni membership fee from N5,000 to N20,000.

They described the increase as arbitrary and insensitive to the country’s economic situation.

The alumni claimed that the fee provided no benefits and was merely a way to extort them, many of whom were unaware of the association’s activities.

In the recent petition, the ex-students claimed that though some visible projects were carried out by the executive, there was no justification for the increase.

The petition read, “We are writing to urgently address the growing concerns among Tai Solarin University of Education Alumni regarding the financial practices of the alumni association, particularly in light of the recent and unexplained increase in the alumni fee.

“We understand that the alumni association has stated that the funds collected are being used to assist the university and government in building lecture halls and hostels. While we appreciate any efforts to support the institution, we must question whether it is the responsibility of the alumni to undertake these projects, which are typically the obligations of the university and government.

“Alumni contributions should be voluntary and should not come at the cost of making life unbearable for alumni members and graduating students through exorbitant fees.”

The petition which was jointly signed by concerned graduates also gave a three-day ultimatum to the executive to explain the funds generated by the association.

“In the interest of transparency and accountability, we formally request that an audited financial report covering the past five years be provided to the public within 72 hours which starts from the date of this letter.

“This report should detail the income, expenditures, and overall management of the alumni funds during these periods.

Additionally, we demand that the N20,000 increased alumni fee be immediately removed from the payment portal.

“This fee is unreasonable and has caused significant distress among alumni members. It must be withdrawn as part of the immediate steps to address our concerns.”

Meanwhile, the association’s Public Relations Officer, Ademolu Adenuga, disclosed in a telephone conversation on Monday that an official response would be made public soon.

“I am currently in Osogbo. When I return, I will officially address their concerns,” Adenuga said.