An industrial crisis may be looming at the Federal University Wukari (FUW), Taraba State, following a petition to the Federal Ministry of Education by a group of concerned members of the university, who raised questions about the integrity of the ongoing Vice-Chancellor appointment process.
The petition, signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Bulus Zakari, called for transparency in the selection process and emphasized that appointments should be merit-based and compliant with statutory requirements.
According to the petitioners, records do not indicate that one of the shortlisted candidates holds the rank of professor within the university system, a key requirement for appointment as Vice-Chancellor.
“Recent events surrounding the ongoing selection process have raised serious concerns among stakeholders,” Zakari said.
The petition acknowledged that one of the candidates, Dr. Benjamin Ate Kefas, holds degrees in pharmacy, including a B.Pharm, MSc, and PhD, obtained from Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, and Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium. They also noted his experience as a research scientist, educator, and Assistant Professor of Neuro-oncology at the University of Virginia, highlighting his work in scientific research, curriculum development, and project management.
“Our concern is not directed at any individual on personal grounds, but rather at ensuring that the appointment process remains transparent, competitive, and merit-based,” the petition stated.
The group pointed out that the Vice-Chancellor position requires the attainment of the rank of professor with at least 10 years of experience, proven integrity, and high administrative ability, as specified in university regulations and guidelines issued by the Federal Government.
They also expressed concern about the screening process, noting that out of about 40 applicants, 36 were reportedly screened out, leaving only four candidates, which raised questions about fairness and transparency.
The petitioners called on the Federal Government to intervene to safeguard the integrity of the university and ensure a smooth and credible appointment process.
“We respectfully urge the Federal Ministry of Education, as supervisory authority over federal universities, to intervene promptly and ensure that the ongoing appointment process adheres strictly to the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1993 and its amendments, also known as the Universities Autonomy Act.
“Specifically, we request the Ministry to:
Conduct an independent review of the selection and screening process to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with statutory requirements.
Verify that all shortlisted candidates meet the academic and administrative qualifications prescribed for the office of Vice-Chancellor.
Ensure that no external influence compromises the autonomy of the university governing council or the integrity of the appointment process.
Reassure staff, students, and stakeholders through transparent communication that merit and due process will determine the final selection.
Take necessary corrective measures should any procedural irregularities be established,” the petition read.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
