The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, has invited University of Abuja professors protesting the appointment of Prof. Aisha Maikudi as the substantive Vice-Chancellor, citing the process as flawed and unlawful.
It was learned that the Minister was compelled to summon the protesting professors, who are members of the University Senate, for a discussion in his office today (Tuesday).
According to sources, the meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM.
“The professors are currently in the Ministry of Education waiting for the minister to let them in for the meeting.
“The minister has been forced to invite the professors for talk. You know, the professors had written to the minister and even President Bola Tinubu since December 27, 2024, and also on January 7, yet the minister ignored them. A few days ago, they wrote to the Senate.”
A professor who is also attending the meeting, told SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity that their demands are simple: “Dissolve the (governing) council of the school and nullify the kangaroo appointment of the VC.”
SaharaReporters reported on January 7 that University of Abuja’s Senate members, comprising 43 professors, had petitioned President Tinubu, expressing their total loss of faith and confidence in the Governing Council.
In a petition dated January 2, 2025, the professors alleged that the Governing Council has demonstrated a lack of integrity, competence, and fairness in selecting the substantive Vice Chancellor for the university.
The petitioners specifically criticised the council’s handling of the Vice Chancellor appointment process, which they claim was marred by irregularities and a disregard for due process.
They urged President Tinubu to take immediate action to address the situation and restore the integrity of the university’s governance
It was reported on December 31, 2024 that the Senate had passed a vote of no confidence on the Governing Council, citing manipulation of the Vice-Chancellor appointment process and breach of university laws.
In a letter to the Minister of Education, dated December 27 and signed by 43 Senate members, they urged the minister to dissolve the Governing Council, declare their proceedings null and void, and reconstitute a new council to oversee a fresh and fair appointment process.
The 43 Senate members who signed the letter are: Professor Olanrewaju Aladeitan, Prof. Umaru D. Muhammed, Prof. Mabel I.E Evwiohana, Prof. Jude Omeje, Prof. Effiok Bassey Uwatt, Prof. Ifeoma Echezona, Prof. S.A.J Obansa, Dr. Yekeen Abdulmalik, Prof. F. N Ogwueleka, Prof. M.O Durojaye, Prof. Ndana R.W, Prof. W.D Nafarnda, Prof. O.F Ajagbona, Prof. Yusuf Ahmadu, Prof. Yau Muhammed Damagum, Prof. Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman and Prof. Philip Akpen.
Others are Prof. Rosemary Udeozor, Prof. Otaki Alananan, Prof. Simon Abochol, Prof. Saleh Dauda, Prof. Muhammed A. Katcha, Prof. J.O Ogedendenge, Prof. Aisuodionoe-Shadrach O.I, Prof Sani Saka, Prof. Yusuf Zoaka, Prof. Muktar A. Muhammed, Prof. J.J. Ndana, Prof. Nkiruka C. Odoh, Prof. Ejeikwu E.O., Prof. Simon M.K, Prof. M.U Ndagi, Prof. Obida Gobna, Prof. Shimawua Atimga, Dr. Sylvester S.; Prof. C.B.I Alaw, Prof. A. M Maisamari, Prof. I.C. Nnadi, Prof. G.M Oladele, Prof. Uwakwe Abugu, Prof. James Ojobo, Prof. Magdalene Igbolo and Prof. Ishaya M. Dagwa.
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