AAU Management Seeks Clarifications on ₦1 Billion Bailout Fund Disbursement

Ekpoma, Nigeria — April 18, 2026

The Management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) has called for clarity and factual accountability in the ongoing discourse surrounding the redeployment of its former Bursar, Dr. Sadiq Akor, particularly in relation to the disbursement of a ₦1 billion intervention fund provided by the Edo State Government.

In an official statement issued on Saturday, the University emphasized the need for stakeholders to focus on verifiable facts rather than sentiments, noting that the circumstances leading to recent administrative decisions must be properly understood within the context of documented processes and institutional directives.

According to Management, a series of critical questions remain central to public understanding of how the intervention fund—reportedly earmarked to address salary arrears—was handled. The statement indicated that meetings involving University Management and staff unions were convened, during which it was allegedly agreed that the initial tranche of the fund should be applied toward outstanding salaries.

Management directed Bursar to calculate the extent to which the fund could offset arrears after statutory deductions, but did the Bursar comply within a reasonable time frame. No, he never did.

The statement referenced an instance in which the Vice-Chancellor reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in the presence of principal officers, prompting the Bursar to request additional time—specifically one hour—to produce the required modalities. Management questioned whether this commitment was fulfilled and whether the necessary documentation was eventually submitted prior to the institution’s Easter recess. The answer is No.

While stopping short of drawing definitive conclusions, the University maintained that resolving these issues is essential to ensuring transparency and reinforcing confidence in its administrative processes. It reiterated its commitment to due process and institutional reform, particularly as it continues efforts to stabilize operations and improve staff welfare.

The development comes amid heightened public interest in governance and financial accountability within Nigerian public universities, where intervention funds are often critical to addressing systemic challenges, including salary backlogs and infrastructure deficits.

Management concluded by urging all parties involved to engage constructively and rely on documented evidence as the University navigates its ongoing recovery initiatives.