The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants for the position of Vice Chancellor (VC) of the institution.
The Council chaired by Air Vice Marshal Saddiq Isma’ila Kaita (rtd) reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding due process in accordance with the university’s statutes, particularly in the selection of a new VC.
The Council emphasised that the VC selection process to strictly adhere to the university’s established rules and templates, adding claims of favouritism or interference were unfounded as they remained an attempt to blackmail and hinder the selection process.
The Council noted that external interventions, as suggested by some parties, were not the solution to the tussle over the exalted seat of the Vice Chancellor.
Calling for unity and collective action in the interest of the university and the nation, the Council assured that it remained steadfast in its dedication to transparency, accountability, and excellence.
The Council condemned the actions of certain individuals who, out of desperation, were attempting to destabilise the university’s academic environment. Such behaviour, the Chairman noted, threatens ongoing efforts to enhance the institution for students, staff, and the nation at large.
The Chairman 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 Council 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).
AVM Kaita (rtd) 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.
Tension had gripped the institution over the choice of a new Vice-Chancellor after the former VC, Prof. Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, vacated the position on July 1, with some opposing interests, who are against acting VC, Aisha Maikudi, a Professor of International Law, said to have accused her of being favoured through accelerated promotions to position her for appointment as the new substantive VC.