UniAbuja Council Denies Claims of Favoritism in Vice Chancellor Appointment Process
The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring a transparent and fair process in selecting the institution’s next Vice Chancellor (VC). The Council, chaired by Air Vice Marshal Saddiq Isma’ila Kaita (rtd), emphasized that the selection would strictly follow the university’s established rules and statutes, countering any claims of bias or external interference.
In a statement, the Council strongly refuted allegations of favoritism or manipulation in the VC appointment process, describing such claims as unfounded attempts to disrupt the selection procedure. The Chairman stated that external interventions would not resolve the ongoing dispute over the VC position, urging all parties involved to refrain from destabilizing the academic environment.
Calling for unity within the university community, the Council assured that it would continue to prioritize transparency, accountability, and excellence in its decision-making. It also condemned actions by certain individuals who were attempting to undermine the institution’s progress. These individuals, according to the Chairman, posed a threat to the university’s efforts to enhance its academic standing for the benefit of students, staff, and the nation at large.
To address the growing tensions, the Council decided to postpone the Senate meeting, allowing time for mediation and further consultation with key stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). AVM Kaita assured the university community that the ongoing selection process and investigations would be conducted with integrity, ensuring the university maintains its legacy as a beacon of academic excellence.
The controversy surrounding the VC appointment surfaced after the former VC, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, vacated the position on July 1. Opposition has arisen against the acting VC, Professor Aisha Maikudi, with some alleging that she was promoted through accelerated processes to position her as the new substantive VC. The Council, however, reiterated its commitment to fairness, rejecting any claims of favoritism in the proces
