The University of Abuja has firmly denied allegations of bias and irregularities in its ongoing selection process for a new Vice-Chancellor, following protests by senior professors who criticised the procedure as “flawed.”
Reports from PUNCH Online on Tuesday revealed that some senior academics at the university had raised concerns over the selection process, accusing the institution of favouritism. The controversy erupted following the exit of the university’s former VC, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, on July 1, 2024, after which the search for his successor commenced.
During Na’Allah’s tenure, he had initiated the process to appoint a new VC before stepping down. Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, was appointed to serve as acting Vice-Chancellor after his departure.
However, some stakeholders have contested her appointment, questioning whether she possesses enough years of professorial experience to assume the role permanently.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Habib Yakoob, the university addressed these concerns, asserting that Prof. Maikudi is fully qualified for the position and has effectively managed the responsibilities of acting VC over the past six months.
The university insisted that Maikudi, along with all other candidates, had been considered under a merit-based selection process.
“These reports, which include claims of imposing a candidate—specifically the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi—are misleading and exaggerated,” the statement read.
“In fact, her remarkable accomplishments during this period have garnered widespread applause and commendation within and beyond the University.”
The university also emphasised its commitment to a transparent and fair selection process, conducted in line with relevant laws and regulations.
“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 added.
Addressing reports of protests by some professors, the university acknowledged the right of staff members to express their concerns peacefully.
However, it categorically denied any allegations of coercion or confrontation during a recent Senate meeting. “No such meeting occurred,” Yakoob clarified, while stressing that the university respects staff rights to peaceful protest.
The statement also responded to claims of harassment involving a Channels Television journalist, clarifying that the incident had been thoroughly investigated.
The findings revealed that the journalist’s vehicle had been briefly immobilised due to a misunderstanding over their identity and purpose on campus. The university denied any allegations of assault, detention, or harm, confirming that no journalist who properly identified themselves had been denied access.
The University of Abuja reiterated its commitment to maintaining positive relationships with the media and safeguarding the safety and security of all individuals on campus.
It called on all stakeholders to allow the selection process to unfold without external interference or politicisation, assuring that the process will be concluded with integrity and in the best interests of the institution.
“The process will be concluded with the utmost integrity and in the best interests of the University,” the statement concluded.
