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The Student Affairs Committee of the Ogun State APC 2027 Campaign Council has urged stakeholders to focus on the educational benefits of the Gbemiga Abiodun Education Support Programme rather than politicising the initiative.
The committee, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Samson Adeyemi, said it took note of a recent statement by a self-acclaimed PDP Student Coordinator in the state concerning the programme.
Adeyemi said while transparency and accountability are important, the conversation around the initiative should recognise its humanitarian purpose and the legacy it seeks to preserve.
Established in memory of the late Gbemiga Abiodun, son of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the programme, according to the committee, represents an effort to transform personal loss into lasting opportunity for students, particularly those from financially challenged backgrounds.
The committee noted that the programme has expanded its reach, with reports on its fourth edition in October 2026 indicating an increase in beneficiaries from 831 in the 2025/2026 award year to 1,277 for the 2026/2027 academic session.
It added that the scope of the programme covers primary, secondary, technical college and tertiary education, alongside examination support, digital skills development and plans for entrepreneurship assistance.
On the reported discrepancy between the numerical figure and amount written in words on a cheque presented at the programme, the committee said transparency is essential to sustaining public confidence and should receive appropriate clarification from relevant authorities.
It, however, faulted what it described as an attempt to turn the concern into a sweeping indictment of APC student leaders and to question their independence.
“No political party owns the student voice, and no individual should presume that disagreement with their position is proof of compromised integrity,” the statement reads in part.
The committee stressed that recognising the contribution of an educational initiative and demanding clarification on a specific issue are not contradictory, adding that public presentations and financial information should be clear and accurate.
It called on student leaders to approach the discussion with maturity, allow appropriate authorities to clarify the reported discrepancy and ensure the conversation remains centred on improving students’ lives.
Adeyemi reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to student welfare, educational advancement and constructive engagement, saying the legacy of the programme should remain focused on the students it seeks to support.
