Several stakeholders have expressed their worries about a potential violation of established guidelines during the selection of a new vice chancellor for the Federal University Wukari, located in Taraba State.
The concerned group, operating under the name Concerned Persons with Education Interest, submitted a petition to the Minister of Education on Friday in Jalingo. The petition was coordinated by Comrade Bulus Zakari, who urged the ministry's intervention to prevent situations that could lead to labor unrest and affect the university's integrity and stability.
Among the issues highlighted in the petition is the alleged influence of Governor Agbu Kefas over the selection process, particularly the promotion of his brother, Dr. Benjamin Ate Kefas. The group criticized the lack of a transparent, competitive, and merit-based selection process, pointing out that of the 40 applicants, only four individuals were shortlisted, including a non- indigene.
"Currently available information suggests uncertainty around whether Dr. Benjamin Ate Kefas, who is posited to be favored by external pressures, fulfills the necessary qualifications," Zakari noted.
He acknowledged that while Kefas holds requisite academic credentials in pharmacy and possesses experience in teaching and research overseas, records indicate he is at the Assistant Professor level, rather than a full professorship in an academic institution.
"In addition, there seems to be no confirmable proof that Benjamin Ate Kefas has occupied significant academic leadership positions, such as Head of Department, Dean of Faculty, or Director of academic programs at any university. These roles are deemed crucial preparatory experience for someone aiming to become a Vice-Chancellor, equipping them with essential governance and administrative skills necessary for leading complex educational institutions," Zakari stated.
The concerned group urged the Minister to intervene as the supervising authority, ensuring compliance with the University (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1993 and its amendments, otherwise known as the Universities Autonomy Act. They requested an independent review of the selection and screening processes to guarantee fairness and adherence to stipulated qualifications for the Vice-Chancellor role.
Additionally, they implored the minister to prevent any external political influences from compromising the autonomy of the university's governing council or the integrity of the appointment procedure.
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