From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyeri III, Ajirotutu I, has told estate agents in Iseyin to stop extorting students from higher institutions. He warned them against charging extra percentage fees on rent.
The monarch spoke on Wednesday evening at a stakeholders’ meeting. He called it to tackle issues faced by students at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Iseyin campus.
Oba Ajirotutu asked students to report problems to a new ad-hoc committee. This group will ensure their comfort and safety while studying in Iseyin.
He thanked Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for improving Iseyin’s infrastructure. He also praised Mrs. Titilayomi Ahmadu, the Iseyin member of the LAUTECH Governing Council, for her active role in solving school issues.
The monarch said, “I convened this meeting following a request from the Ebedi Frontliners, Iseyin (E.F.I), who urged me to intervene in the accommodation crisis affecting LAUTECH students. While previous efforts have helped maintain peace, it is essential to reassess the situation and implement a lasting solution.
“We have received reports of multiple agents leasing the same accommodation and each demanding a separate 10% agent fee, thereby inflating rental costs beyond students’ financial capabilities. This must stop.
“No estate agent should be caught extorting students any longer. If anyone is found guilty, legal actions will be taken accordingly.”
Yusuf Abdulrasak spoke for LAUTECH students. He thanked the Aseyin, E.F.I, and others for stepping in. He said security and transport issues are now better, thanks to teamwork with stakeholders and Iseyin’s Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
The meeting included key figures like Prof. Lamidi Ojedapo, Deputy Provost of LAUTECH’s College of Agricultural Science and Renewable Natural Resources; Mr. Folayowon Adesola, the College Secretary; Hon. Waheed Olaniyan, Chairman of the LAUTECH Local Committee; and Mr. Segun Adeleke, Chairman of Ebedi Frontliners, Iseyin. Registered estate surveyors, valuers, and real estate agents from Iseyin also attended.