UniAbuja VC Appointment: Council Fires Back at Critics!

The University of Abuja has been the center of a recent controversy surrounding the appointment of its new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi. Allegations of foul play have been made, but the university council is standing firm, insisting that everything was done by the book. Let’s delve into the details and uncover the truth behind this heated debate.

Key Points at a Glance:

  • University of Abuja defends appointment of Prof. Aisha Sani Maikudi as VC.
  • Claims the process followed all relevant laws and procedures.
  • 43 academics had petitioned against the appointment, alleging manipulation.
  • Council denies all allegations and highlights broad acceptance of the new VC.

The Controversy Erupts

The appointment of Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi as the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja wasn’t without its drama. A group of 43 academics from the university senate raised concerns, suggesting that the Governing Council, led by Air Vice-Marshal Saddiq Ismaila Kaita (Rtd), had manipulated the selection process to favor Prof. Maikudi. This led to a petition to President Bola Tinubu, who is also the university’s Visitor, calling for the council’s dissolution.

Council’s Firm Response

In response to these allegations, the University Council issued a statement through Acting Registrar Islamiyat Adulrahim. The council firmly stated that the appointment of the new VC on December 31, 2024, strictly adhered to the University of Abuja Act and the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act 2003, NO 1 of 2007. According to the council, there was no foul play. The appointment was done by the book.

They further emphasized that all concerns and issues were thoroughly addressed with the involvement of major stakeholders, including the University Senate and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). This involvement, according to the council, explains the wide acceptance of the new VC within and outside the university community.

Sportsmanship vs. Reality

The council also acknowledged that in a competitive selection process with 87 applicants, there would naturally be those who didn’t make the cut. They urged those who lost to demonstrate sportsmanship and maturity, emphasizing that it is essential for the university to move forward under the leadership of the new Vice-Chancellor.

Moving Forward

Professor Maikudi, who previously served as an acting Vice-Chancellor for six months, is now set to implement her vision for the university. The council hopes for an atmosphere of inclusiveness and corporate harmony to achieve their objectives.

It remains to be seen how these tensions will resolve, but the University of Abuja seems determined to move forward with its new leadership.

Related Issues

This situation is not unique in the Nigerian university system. Often, appointments are contentious, and the process sometimes becomes more political than merit-based. As such, proper legal frameworks are essential to ensure universities remain fair and effective institutions.

About The Author

Kayode Nwankwo

Kayode actively participates in workshops and seminars focusing on public health and environmental protection. He collaborates with NGOs and governmental agencies to promote initiatives that support sustainable practices and improve healthcare access in underserved areas.He mentors young journalists interested in science and health reporting, stressing the need for in-depth knowledge and a strong ethical approach.

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