A coalition of civil society organisations has advocated for the immediate removal of the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Victor Ndoma-Egba, over what they described as “administrative compromise, unethical conduct, and complicity in injustice” at the institution.
In a protest statement addressed to the Minister of Education and signed by Ashiru Oladipo, the National Coalition for Good Governance and Citizens’ Advocacy for Justice Coordinator, alleged Ndoma-Egba of serving as an “extension of the hands” of the embattled Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, in what they termed a pattern of “perpetuating injustice and institutional corruption.”
The coalition accused Professor Fasina of being embroiled in multiple scandals having to do with sexual harassment, including one in which a dismissed staff member was reportedly a victim.
The coalition says there have been several instances where Professor Fasina has been exonerated of sexual harassment allegations even when the evidence was overwhelming.
They noted that the selective justice is unacceptable in a federal institution.
The statement alleged that some staff members had been unlawfully terminated under Fasina’s administration, including one who was said to be a victim of his sexual misconduct.
They said such actions not only contravenes the rights of staffers but also spreads to the credibility of the institution’s leadership.
The civil society coalition demanded the immediate ratification of the current Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Olubunmi Shittu, as Acting Vice Chancellor, in line with public service and university regulations.
They also urged the federal government to immediately remove and replace the current Governing Council Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Victor Ndoma-Egba, accusing him of administrative bias and failure to uphold the principles of accountability and justice.
Furthermore, the coalition called on the government to mandate the appointment of a new, impartial Pro-Chancellor who will institute a full, independent, and transparent investigation into all allegations levelled against the university’s management.
The statement read, “The coalition of civil society hereby expresses our confidence and gratitude for your timely intervention in restoring sanctity, order and the rule of law in various universities, including Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; University of Abuja; University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Even, recently, the stepping aside through mandatory leave of Prof Abayomi Fasina as approved by Egba-led council.
“The giant strides you have recorded within such a short time frame are indeed laudable and exemplary. We express our confidence in your office, abilities, vision and itinerary for the Nigerian educational sector.
“However, we are requesting yet again for your urgent intervention in the immediate removal of Mr. Victor Ndoma Egba SAN as chairman of the governing council of FUOYE and, the Suspension of Prof Abayomi Sunday Fasina as the Vice Chancellor of FUOYE.
“The reasons are detailed as follows: First, the lack of independence of the Council Chairman who allegedly has turned to an immediate extension of the hands of Prof Abayomi Sunday Fasina in perpetrating injustices. Secondly, exoneration of Prof Abayomi Sunday Fasina from sexual harassment of staffers, even in instances where the evidence was overwhelming.
“Thirdly, unlawful termination and dismissal of staffers, one of whom was a victim of Prof Abayomi Fasina ‘s sexual escapades and harassment. Fourthly, reckless use of university funds to engage in endless litigation against staffers with a view to victimise. Again, Embezzlement and Violation of Procurement Rules.”
The coalition accused Mr. Ndoma-Egba of showing “extreme bias in favour of the Vice Chancellor and his dictates”.
