The Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB) has announced the commencement of a verification and interview exercise for applicants affected by irregularities during the last primary school teachers' recruitment exercise in the state.

The exercise follows the approval of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa during the 2026 Workers' Day celebration for the absorption of genuinely qualified applicants whose recruitment was affected by the irregularities.

According to a statement issued by ODSUBEB's spokesperson, Banjo Egunjobi, the governor's intervention reflects his commitment to justice, fairness and the welfare of residents, particularly applicants whose aspirations were negatively impacted through no fault of their own.

The board disclosed that a Verification Committee was constituted to assess the credentials and recruitment records of all affected applicants to determine those who genuinely participated in the recruitment process, met the prescribed requirements and are eligible for consideration.

The committee, chaired by Comrade Bola Taiwo, held its inaugural meeting on Friday and approved the modalities for the exercise, which will be conducted across the state's three senatorial districts.

According to the schedule, applicants from Ondo Central Senatorial District will be screened on June 30 and July 1 at St. James' Caring Heart Mega Primary School, Irowo, Akure. The Ondo South exercise will take place on July 6 and 7 at St. Mark Caring Heart Mega Primary School, Ore, while applicants from Ondo North will be screened on July 8 and 9 at St. Gregory Caring Heart Mega Primary School, Ikare-Akoko. All exercises will begin at 8:00 a.m.

The board directed all affected applicants to appear in person with the originals and photocopies of their academic certificates, birth certificate or declaration of age, printed recruitment application form, appointment letter and posting letter to their respective schools.

ODSUBEB stressed that participation in the verification and interview exercise is compulsory, noting that only applicants whose credentials and recruitment records are successfully verified will be recommended for further processing in line with the state government's approval.

The board assured applicants that the exercise would be transparent, fair and merit-driven, while urging them to report promptly at their designated venues and comply with all verification requirements. It warned that failure to appear or provide the required documents could affect an applicant's eligibility.

ODSUBEB also expressed appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for approving the intervention, saying the decision has restored hope to many deserving applicants. The board reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening basic education in Ondo State through the recruitment of competent, qualified and dedicated teachers.