I stepped on toes to save UNIOSUN — Ex-VC

Former Vice-Chancellor of Osun State University, Prof. Labode Popoola, has shared insights from his tenure at the institution, revealing how he confronted powerful interests and made tough decisions to prevent UNIOSUN from collapsing during his five-year leadership. In his book, "Navigating Stormy Waters: My Voyage Through UNIOSUN," Popoola disclosed that he initially tried dialogue and persuasion with stakeholders to bring about positive change, but had to resort to more aggressive measures when those efforts failed.

He revealed that he was willing to offend influential individuals if necessary to protect the university. Despite his efforts, Popoola denied allegations of bribery, stating that he had never taken or given a bribe. He also criticized a reluctance within the academic community to speak against wrongdoing, attributing it to a desire for personal benefits and relationships with influential people.

Popoola credited his administration's ability to save UNIOSUN from collapse to deliberate efforts and reforms implemented during his leadership. The institution's recognition as Nigeria's best state university, he noted, was a result of these reforms and long-term planning. The book launch, originally scheduled for September 28, 2025, was moved to accommodate the public presentation of a teaching hospital supported by philanthropist Apostle Folorunso Alakija.