The University of Abuja (UniAbuja) has reiterated its commitment to a transparent and merit-based process in the ongoing selection of a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
Responding to recent media reports and allegations surrounding the Vice-Chancellor selection process, the institution emphasised that the process remains fully aligned with established legal and academic standards.
A press statement by the Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Dr. Habib Yakoob, on Wednesday, noted that the reports, which included claims of the imposition of a candidate specifically the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, as well as allegations of harassment of journalists and protests by some professors, were misleading and exaggerated.
“To begin with, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, like all other candidates who have applied for the position of Vice-Chancellor, is fully qualified and competent to assume the role. Over the past six months, she has ably discharged her responsibilities as Acting Vice-Chancellor. In fact, her remarkable accomplishments during her tenure have continued to attract widespread applause and commendation within the University and beyond.
“Efforts to unjustly malign her candidacy are baseless, unwarranted, and appear calculated to create unnecessary tension and distract the University Council from its mandate,” the statement read.
Yakoob added that the University remained confident in the Council’s commitment to conducting a transparent, fair, and merit-based selection process in strict adherence to the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and other relevant statutes.
“The Council has meticulously structured the process to ensure the emergence of the most competent and visionary leader to steer the institution toward greater achievements,” he said.
Regarding the matter of the Senate meeting, Yakoob clarified that although a meeting had initially been scheduled to address the issue of two Senate members who walked out of the Joint Council/Senate Selection Board meeting over the selection criteria, no such meeting ultimately took place. The meeting was postponed to allow for alternative avenues of amicable resolution.
Concerning claims of protests by some professors, the University affirmed its respect for the right of staff to peacefully express their views but categorically denied any allegations of coercion or confrontation during the supposed Senate meeting, especially since no such meeting occurred.
On the issue of a journalist allegedly being manhandled, the University stated that it thoroughly investigated the incident and found that it stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding the journalist’s identity and purpose on campus.
“Although one of the journalist’s vehicle tyres was briefly immobilized to prevent unauthorized departure, at no time was the journalist detained, assaulted, or subjected to any form of harm. Furthermore, no journalist who properly identified themselves was denied access to the University premises,” the statement added.
The University reiterated its unwavering commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the media and ensuring the safety and security of all individuals within its community.
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