…urges VC not to be distracted by shenanigans masquerading as union activism
The student leadership arm of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), has described as immature and unwarranted the allegations recently leveled against the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof . Abayomi Sunday Fasina, urging the Chief Executive Officer of the University not to be distracted by the nefarious activities of the enemies of progress but concentrate more in building enduring legacies for the Ivory Tower.
A statement signed on behalf of over 50,000 students of FUOYE by the President, Student Union Government, Miss. Mary Olorunshola Abiodun entitled:”ENOUGH IS ENOUGH AT FUOYE” , and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, reads in part:”We have read with profound shock and dismay the recent public statement issued by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), FUOYE chapter.
In the statement, purportedly signed by Mr. Benjamin Faleye and his executive members, several damaging allegations were levelled against the esteemed office of the Vice- Chancellor of this great university. These allegations include the reversal of appointments of teaching staff into non-teaching roles, described by the Union as “a deviation from standard university practices”; sexual harassment and victimisation of a union member; staff intimidation and the creation of a hostile work environment; abuse of office, thereby undermining confidence in university leadership; and administrative recklessness coupled with a lack of accountability.
“While we find these accusations deeply troubling, we believe strongly that there are more constructive and civilised channels through which this caucus of SSANU members could have expressed their grievances, rather than resorting to the reckless option of issuing a sensational and defamatory public statement. Such an approach tarnishes the reputation of the Vice-Chancellor and, by extension, the entire Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE). This public “media war” is both immature and unbecoming, reflecting poorly on the image of the institution.
“A union, as we all understand, exists primarily as a pressure group advocating for the welfare of its members. However, descending into sentimental and unsubstantiated allegations, such as sexual harassment, against the Chief Executive of the university is highly inappropriate. Such matters demand objectivity, devoid of personal grudges, egos, or political agendas. It is disappointing to see a matter of such gravity handled in such a sensational and informal manner, detracting from the dignity of FUOYE.
“We urge the Vice-Chancellor not to be distracted by these unfounded claims, which seem designed to undermine the peace, progress, and development that FUOYE has enjoyed under the leadership of Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina. His administration has brought tremendous achievements that have elevated the university to an enviable position of success. For the record, the Vice-Chancellor has performed admirably in providing world-class learning and teaching facilities for the growing student population across FUOYE’s twin campuses.
“Professor Fasina is widely regarded as a student-friendly leader, genuinely committed to academic excellence and the welfare of students. This commitment is evident in numerous achievements during his tenure, including the sponsorship of six fresh graduates of FUOYE for fully funded doctoral programmes at prestigious universities in the United States and Brazil.
“Additionally, nine undergraduate students excelled in ICAN examinations, with one student emerging as the overall best in the federation last year. FUOYE students have consistently achieved excellence in fields such as engineering, geology, and accounting, outperforming their peers from older, more established universities. These successes are a testament to the Vice-Chancellor’s visionary leadership.
“Moreover, Professor Fasina is a firm disciplinarian with zero tolerance for immorality or criminality. Under his administration, lecturers found guilty of sexual harassment have been exposed and appropriately sanctioned, while female students affected by such misconduct have been protected and granted justice. This proactive stance underscores his commitment to fostering a safe and conducive environment for learning and personal development.
“We stand resolutely in solidarity with Professor Fasina, who has been a father figure, mentor, and source of inspiration for all students at FUOYE. His contributions have strengthened the university’s reputation and provided students with opportunities for both academic and personal growth.
“We, therefore, call on those intent on destabilising the university to desist from such actions. Whatever grievances they may have, the dignity of FUOYE must remain sacrosanct.
“We urge all parties to embrace decorum, maturity, and decency, befitting a civilised institution like ours. Enough of the negative trends and baseless accusations. Let us work together to preserve and advance the reputation and integrity of FUOYE”, she said.
