VC tussle: UniAbuja Council reassures candidates of level-playing field

The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) on Thursday reassured candidates in the selection process of a substantive vice-chancellor for the institution or its neutrality, saying that it was commitment to ensuring a level playing field for all of them.

The Council’s Chairman, Air Vice-Marshal Saddiq Kaita (rtd), while giving its position, maintained that the university’s statute would be applied to ensure that due process was not shortchanged in picking the next substantive vice-chancellor.

The university has been on the news over the appointment of a successor to Prof. Abdul Rasheed Na’Allah, the former VC, who vacated the seat on on July 1, 2024.

Some forces are opposed to Prof. Aisha Maikudi, a professor of International Law, who has served in acting capacity, from being named thr new VC.

Her opponents claim she was allegedly favoured through accelerated promotions to position her for appointment as the next VC.

However, Council has insisted that the selection process will strictly adhere to the university’s established rules and templates, adding claims of favoritism or interference are unfounded.

The Council noted that external interventions, as suggested by some parties, are not the solution to the tussle over the seat.

ALSO READ: Estimated billing: FG to distribute two million prepaid meters in 2025 Q1 — Adelabu

Calling for unity and collective action in the interest of the university and the nation, the Council assured that it remains steadfast in its dedication to transparency, accountability, and excellence.

It condemned the actions of certain individuals who, out of desperation, are attempting to destabilise the university’s academic environment.

According to AVM Katia, such behaviours threaten ongoing efforts to enhance the institution for students, staff and the nation at large.

He appealed to the university community to exercise patience and foster collaboration just as it urged stakeholders to prioritise the institution’s welfare over personal agendas and reassured them that no amount of blackmail would derail the commitment to fairness and transparency.

In a bid to resolve the conflict, the Chairman directed the postponement of the Senate meeting to allow for mediation and consultation with key stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

He assured the university community that the ongoing investigations and selection processes would be handled with integrity, ensuring the University of Abuja continues its legacy as a beacon of academic excellence in Nigeria.

READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE