The Minister of Education must address critical questions regarding the ongoing situation at the Federal College of Education (Technical) in Akoka: Does the institution require a substantive Provost? Was the Provost who was asked to 'step aside' guilty of financial mismanagement or other misconduct during his tenure? Did he fulfill government project directives as anticipated? Did he breach government regulations or defy the Governing Council, leading to his indefinite suspension? How long will it take for the Minister to carry out his responsibilities as Visitor and release the visitation panel report for the Governing Council's action?
The crisis, which began on May 27, 2024, remains unresolved. This raises questions about whether there is indifference from those in authority or if the Ministry of Education is intentionally delaying the process, asserting that events have overtaken the matter. Notably, the findings of the initial investigation panels, which took five months to reach the Minister since their inauguration in August 2024, intensify public concerns regarding the delays.
It is unjust to penalize an individual not guilty of any offense while those instigating chaos and participating in riots continue to work unrestricted at the college.
In response to the situation, the current Minister of Education requested that experts in the Federal Ministry of Education review the report from the Chairman of the Governing Council to ensure that the recommendations align with Civil Service Rules and other relevant regulations.
On May 9, 2025, Dr. Adeniyi O. Adenuga, the then Chairman of the College’s Governing Council, was reassigned to Federal College of Education in Iwo, Osun State, while Honourable Justice (rtd.) Muhammad Suleiman Ambursa was appointed to the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka.
The Minister raised a Special Visitation Panel on July 29, 2025, which former Bauchi State Governor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, His Excellency Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, chaired. The panel, comprising nine additional members, was tasked to examine the pressing issues facing the institution and offer recommendations. This decision aimed to address the prolonged instability linked to the Provost's tenure and other management concerns.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that the panel’s formation followed a Governing Council report documenting a crisis that had significantly disrupted academic and administrative activities. The government's intervention represented a decisive measure to restore order, transparency, and effective governance at the college and among other institutions experiencing similar challenges.
“This is not merely a fault-finding mission driven by sentiment; it is a structured intervention designed to preserve institutional integrity and foster a conducive environment for academic advancement,” he asserted. The Minister indicated that the panel was given a two-week timeframe to present its findings and proposals to the ministry.
The Chairman of the panel, Mohammed Abubakar (SAN), voiced a commitment to conducting a thorough and unbiased investigation, ensuring no detail is overlooked. He praised the Minister for his insight in forming the panel and acknowledged the assortment of qualified professionals selected for the undertaking. The Special Visitation Panel's Terms of Reference include:
1\. Investigating the background and nature of the crisis, encompassing administrative, governance, and labor relationship facets.
2\. Reviewing the involvement of staff unions during the crisis, particularly their impacts on the college's operations and stability.
3\. Analyzing the behaviors and performances of the former and current Provosts, focusing on bureaucratic delays and administrative errors.
4\. Identifying individuals or groups responsible for misconduct, including unlawful activities and obstruction of administrative functions.
5\. Exploring the effectiveness and neutrality of the college's internal disciplinary practices, inclusive of significant officials' roles.
6\. Assessing adherence to established processes and regulations in addressing complaints and disciplinary issues throughout the crisis.
7\. Suggesting fitting disciplinary actions for all identified offenders, including suspension and dismissal.
8\. Advising the Ministry on legal, administrative, and institutional reforms necessary to preclude similar future crises.
Despite the panel’s completion of its assignment on September 4, 2025, the Minister has yet to receive their report. Investigations suggest that this delay contradicts customary practices within the Ministry of Education, which historically fostered skilled administrators across various administrations. Reports indicate that the panel had sought to submit its findings but that the Minister expressed disinterest, even though a representative from his office participated in the sessions.
Considering the qualified personnel on the panel, it is perplexing that their report remains unacknowledged by the Minister of Education. The panel's chairman, who leads a team of esteemed professionals, has a distinguished record in public service, law, and administration. It seems reasonable to conclude that the Minister should display gratitude towards these accomplished individuals by processing the findings they provided.
In contrast to the thorough examination carried out by a previous presidential visitation panel at the University of Lagos, which concluded its findings and resulted in a white paper by the former Minister of Education, there is a troubling lack of similar responsiveness regarding the Akoka college crisis.
It is critical to understand why there is a delay in the Minister's response now that the panel's report is available. His explanations for this postponement need to be communicated to the public transparently. Any individual found guilty of mismanagement or misconduct must face appropriate consequences. The need for transparency in handling this matter cannot be overstated; maintaining the confidence and accountability expected in public service is essential.
The students’ union, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), recently urged for an immediate resolution while raising concern that that heightened tensions persist despite ongoing investigations. Their statement emphasized that, “The crisis has lasted too long, with no actionable resolution from the Minister’s office.” They requested the firm implementation of the panel’s recommendations to avert further instability and safeguard the future of the college.
This situation emphasizes the fundamental requirement for a timely resolution in the educational sector, where management challenges can significantly affect students’ learning experiences. The public seeks urgent clarity and resolution regarding the ongoing leadership crisis at FCE(T) Akoka. Only through decisive actions can progress be made, ensuring that educational institutions uphold their mission of fostering knowledge and integrity.
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