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Stakeholders raise concerns over transparency in FUW VC appointment process
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Civil society group petitions Federal Ministry of Education over alleged irregularities
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Group warns that flaws in the process could threaten academic stability and harmony
Concerns have emerged over the ongoing process to appoint a new Vice-Chancellor at the Federal University Wukari (FUW), Taraba State, following allegations of possible irregularities and external interference.
A civil society organisation, Concerned Persons with Education Interest, has petitioned the Federal Ministry of Education, calling for closer supervision of the selection process to ensure transparency, merit, and strict compliance with statutory guidelines.
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In the petition signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Bulus Zakari, the group warned that perceived lapses in the process could undermine confidence in the university’s governance and disrupt industrial harmony if not promptly addressed.
The group urged the ministry to ensure that all shortlisted candidates meet the required academic and administrative qualifications for Vice-Chancellors in federal universities, particularly the rank of full professor and relevant leadership experience, as stipulated by existing regulations.
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Zakari noted that unease among stakeholders was growing, stressing that confidence-building measures were necessary to safeguard the integrity of the institution’s leadership selection process.
While acknowledging the academic qualifications of one of the aspirants, Dr. Benjamin Ate Kefas, the group highlighted his educational background in Pharmacy and Neuro-oncology, as well as his professional experience in the United States as a research scientist and educator.
However, the group maintained that the selection process must strictly adhere to Nigerian university regulations, especially with respect to academic rank and administrative experience, regardless of international exposure or credentials.
The petition also drew attention to concerns surrounding the screening exercise and urged the ministry to review the process in line with the University (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1993, as amended, to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and due process.
The group appealed to the Federal Government to conduct an independent assessment of the process, warning that failure to act could erode trust among staff and students and threaten academic stability at the institution.
