Tension is high at Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano! Lecturers are up in arms, demanding the removal of the Governing Council Chairman, Professor Ahmad Adamu, who also serves as the Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. Is this a conflict of interest waiting to explode?
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- Lecturers want Professor Adamu out ASAP.
- They’re rejecting plans to appoint a new Vice Chancellor without following the proper steps.
- ASUU is accusing the Governing Council of violating university regulations.
Why the Fuss? The Core Issues
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), specifically the Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education, Kano (YUMSFUEK) branch, isn’t holding back. They’re alleging a significant conflict of interest. According to them, Professor Adamu’s dual role is hindering the university’s progress.
Key Allegations:
- Conflict of Interest: Holding top positions at both ABU and YUMSFUEK is a no-no, they say.
- Flawed Appointment Process: The lecturers are crying foul over plans to appoint a new Vice Chancellor, claiming due process is being ignored.
- Violation of University Act: ASUU insists the Governing Council is breaking the rules.
ASUU’s Demands: What They Want
In a strongly worded petition addressed to the Minister of Education, Dr. Marauf Tunji Alausa, ASUU laid out their grievances and demands. They claim the entire process to appoint a new VC was a sham.
ASUU’s Wishlist:
- Immediate removal of Professor Ahmad Adamu.
- Reconstitution of the Governing Council to include all statutory members.
- A thorough probe into alleged fraudulent activities within the university.
- Restoration of withheld promotions and allowances.
Digging Deeper: The Nitty-Gritty of the Allegations
ASUU is not just throwing accusations; they’re backing them up with specifics. They claim the Governing Council is incomplete because it excludes representatives from the University Senate, Congregation, and Convocation. This, they argue, is a violation of the Federal Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act.
“The deliberate refusal to appoint these representatives exposes a sinister agenda to truncate the upgrading and transition of the institution to a university,” ASUU stated in their petition.
Furthermore, they accuse the outgoing Acting VC, Dr. Sirajo, of overstaying his tenure and obstructing the university’s progress. Heavy stuff!
The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake?
This isn’t just a local squabble. It touches on broader issues of governance, transparency, and the future of education in Nigeria. The outcome of this conflict could set a precedent for how universities are managed and how conflicts of interest are addressed.
What’s Next?
The ball is now in the court of the Federal Government and the Minister of Education. Will they heed ASUU’s demands? Will they launch an investigation? The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of YUMSFUEK and the individuals involved.
Update: Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. We’ll continue to bring you the latest developments and analysis on this unfolding crisis.