Kogi Varsity Denies Allegations Of Tribal Bias

The management of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, has dismissed allegations of ethnic favouritism in the administrative decisions of its vice-chancellor, Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, describing the claims as baseless and misleading

In a statement, the university management expressed concern over a widely circulated social media post by Farouk Ozigi Onimisi, alleging tribal bias in the appointments made since the vice-chancellor assumed office.

The management noted that although it would ordinarily ignore what it described as “frivolous and divisive” claims, it decided to respond in order to set the record straight and provide clarity to the public.

According to the statement, the vice-chancellor’s leadership approach since assuming office about a month ago has been focused on addressing institutional challenges and improving the welfare of staff and students rather than promoting sectional interests.

The management cited the recent resolution of the long-standing issue involving staff members employed since 2018 who had not been captured on the university payroll.

It explained that through administrative engagement and collaboration with relevant government agencies, approval was secured from the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, leading to the affected staff being placed on the payroll and receiving salaries beginning from March 2026.

The university said the development brought relief to the affected staff and demonstrated the administration’s commitment to fairness and staff welfare.

The statement also highlighted the Vice-Chancellor’s previous record as Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, where he was credited with running an inclusive and reform-oriented administration.

To further counter the allegations, the management listed the appointments made so far under the current administration, noting that they reflect a balance across different parts of the state.

Among those appointed are Professor Sanni Momoh as Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Rock Adeiza Ezekiel Adeiza as Director of the Industrial Training and Research Centre, and Abdulmalik Adinoyi as the pioneer Transport Officer.

Others include Dr Kizitto Eneye, as Director of the Central Laboratory; Professor Patrick Adejoh Ataja, as Director of Academic Planning and Development; and Professor Ken Enejo, as Director of the Centre for Pre-Degree and Diploma Studies.

Additional appointments listed were Segun Suleiman as Deputy Director of CPDS, Dr Samuel Sheneni Shekpe as Chairman of E-Examination, and Uredo Omale as Public Relations Officer.

Others are Emmanuel Onuh, Chief Security Officer; Dr Agih Abdul, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs; and Power Babaniyi, Technical Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor.

The management clarified that the appointments listed were made directly by the Vice-Chancellor, adding that other changes within departments were internal postings carried out by department heads.

It warned against what it described as selective interpretations of administrative decisions, saying such narratives could create unnecessary ethnic tensions within the academic community.

The university reaffirmed that the Vice-Chancellor remains committed to leading the institution on the basis of merit, fairness, and institutional balance.

The management added that the response would be its first and last on the matter, urging those spreading unfounded claims to desist from actions that could distract the university leadership.