The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong warning to the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), threatening to disrupt its upcoming convocation ceremony over allegations of sexual harassment and extortion leveled against the Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina.
These allegations involve accusations of inappropriate behavior towards a senior staff member, Engr. Folasade Adebayo, and claims of financial exploitation of students through the institution’s part-time program. According to NANS Senate President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, the alleged acts, if proven, undermine the moral standards expected of academic leaders.
“This is a call for accountability, not just for the sake of Nigerian students but to uphold the integrity of our academic institutions,” Babatunde stated. “The Governing Council must act decisively by suspending the VC to ensure a transparent investigation. If no action is taken, NANS will mobilize nationwide to shut down FUOYE.”
Babatunde added that beyond the sexual harassment claims, allegations of financial misconduct and administrative malpractice have marred Professor Fasina’s leadership. He accused the university’s administration of coercing qualified students into expensive part-time programs under the guise of limited admission slots for regular programs.
In response, the Governing Council of FUOYE announced the formation of a nine-member committee to investigate the allegations. The Registrar, Mufutau Ibrahim, assured that the investigation would be thorough and fair, with findings presented to the council within the stipulated timeframe.
Meanwhile, the Civil Society Coalition on the Leadership of FUOYE has dismissed the allegations as baseless. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, its leader, Comrade Shuaib Abdulkadir, described the accusations as politically motivated attempts to tarnish the VC’s reputation.
A legal representative of Professor Fasina, Oluwatosin Adesioye, Esq., also refuted the claims, citing a 2023 investigation by the Nigeria Police, which reportedly absolved the VC of wrongdoing. “The allegations lack substance and are part of a campaign of misinformation aimed at discrediting Professor Fasina’s leadership,” Adesioye remarked.
Despite these defenses, NANS insists on accountability, urging the Governing Council to prioritize justice for all parties involved. Babatunde concluded, “We will not back down until the integrity of FUOYE is restored and its leadership reflects transparency and fairness.”
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