The University of Abuja has denied claims of bias and irregularities in the ongoing selection process of the Vice Chancellor.
PUNCH Online reports that senior professors at the institution on Tuesday, protested what they described as a “flawed” process for the appointment of the institution’s new vice-chancellor.
The institution has been enmeshed in crisis following the exit of the immediate past VC, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, on July 1.
Na’Allah, before his exit as the VC, commenced the process for the appointment of his successor.
Though Na’Allah handed over to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, a law professor, in an acting capacity, there has been tension in the institution as certain stakeholders insisted that Maikudi did not have enough years of qualification as a professor to attain such height.
In a statement on Wednesday issued by the Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Habib Yakoob, the university dismissed claims that Maikudi is being unfairly favoured.
It stated that Maikudi, like all other candidates who applied for the position, is fully qualified and competent for the role, adding that she has effectively managed her responsibilities as acting vice-chancellor over the past six months.
The university said it is committed to a transparent and merit-based selection process conducted under relevant regulations.
The statement read, “These reports, which include claims of imposing a candidate—specifically the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi—as well as allegations of journalist harassment and protests by some professors, are misleading and exaggerated.
“In fact, her remarkable accomplishments during this period have garnered widespread applause and commendation within and beyond the University.
“Efforts to malign her candidacy are baseless, unwarranted, and appear aimed at creating unnecessary tension and distracting the University Council from its mandate.
“The university remains confident in the Council’s ability to conduct a transparent, fair, and merit-based selection process, adhering strictly to the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and other relevant statutes. Yakoob assured that the Council has structured the process to ensure the emergence of the most competent and visionary leader to propel the institution toward greater achievements.”
Regarding the Senate meeting, the statement read, “While a meeting had been initially scheduled to address the conduct of two Senate members who walked out of the Joint Council/Senate Selection Board meeting concerning selection criteria, the meeting was ultimately postponed to explore alternative avenues for amicable resolution.”
On reports of protests by some professors, Yakoob reaffirmed the University’s respect for staff rights to peaceful expression. However, he categorically denied allegations of coercion or confrontation during the supposed Senate meeting, clarifying that no such meeting occurred.
Concerning claims of a Channels Television journalist being manhandled, Yakoob disclosed that the university management thoroughly investigated the incident.
The institution’s spokesman stated that the findings revealed that the issue stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding the journalist’s identity and purpose on campus.
He explained that one of the journalist’s vehicle tyres was briefly immobilised to prevent unauthorized departure, and at no point was the journalist detained, assaulted, or subjected to harm.
“Furthermore, no journalist who properly identified themselves was denied access to the University premises,” the statement added.
The university reiterated its commitment to fostering positive relationships with the media and ensuring the safety and security of all individuals within its community.
“As the institution continues to uphold its mission of providing quality education and fostering innovation, it calls on all stakeholders to allow the selection process to proceed without undue interference or politicization. The process will be concluded with the utmost integrity and in the best interests of the University,” the statement concluded.
Credit: THE PUNCH
