The University of Abuja, refuted allegations of bias and irregularities in the ongoing selection process for its new Vice Chancellor.
Senior professors at the university staged a protest on Tuesday, criticizing what they described as a “flawed” process in the appointment of the next vice-chancellor.
Tensions have been high following the exit of the former VC, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, on July 1.
Before leaving, Na’Allah had initiated the process for selecting his successor.
Prof. Aisha Maikudi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, was appointed as acting vice-chancellor, but some stakeholders raised concerns about her qualifications, questioning whether she had sufficient experience to hold the position.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the university’s Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Habib Yakoob, rejected claims that Maikudi was being unfairly favored.
The statement affirmed that Maikudi, like all other candidates, is fully qualified for the role, emphasizing her competence and effective management of responsibilities during her six months as acting VC.
The university stressed its commitment to a fair, transparent, and merit-based selection process in line with relevant regulations.
“These reports, including claims of imposing a candidate and allegations of journalist harassment, are misleading and exaggerated,” the statement read.
“Prof. Maikudi’s achievements have received widespread recognition, and efforts to undermine her candidacy are unfounded,” the statement continued.
The university also expressed confidence in the University Council’s ability to conduct the selection process impartially, in accordance with the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and other statutes.
Regarding the Senate meeting, the statement clarified that a session to address the walkout of two Senate members had been postponed, as efforts for amicable resolution continued.
The university also addressed claims of mistreatment involving a Channels Television journalist.
According to Yakoob, an investigation revealed that the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding the journalist’s identity.
One of the journalist’s vehicle tyres was temporarily immobilized to prevent unauthorized departure, but at no point was the journalist detained or assaulted.
The university reiterated its commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the media and ensuring the safety and security of everyone on campus.
It called on stakeholders to allow the selection process to proceed without interference, assuring that it will be concluded with integrity and in the best interests of the institution.
