Tensions are escalating at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has leveled serious allegations against the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina.
In a detailed statement signed by key SSANU executives, including Chairman Benjamin Faleye and Secretary Ayomikun Aluke, the union accused Prof. Fasina of fostering a toxic work environment marked by sexual harassment, staff victimization, and administrative recklessness. They also called for an independent investigation into the university’s financial dealings under his leadership.
The SSANU statement paints a troubling picture of the current administration at FUOYE. According to the union, the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure has been characterized by widespread intimidation of staff, particularly those active in union affairs. This, they claim, has led to a collapse of trust and morale within the university.
"The Vice-Chancellor’s actions have not only undermined staff confidence but have also eroded the integrity of the university’s leadership,” the statement read.
The union also raised concerns over financial mismanagement, urging the university’s Governing Council and relevant authorities to probe the institution’s finances to ensure transparency and accountability.
Another point of contention highlighted by SSANU was the alleged placement of teaching staff in non-teaching roles. Describing this practice as a deviation from standard university norms, the union demanded an immediate reversal of such appointments to preserve the administrative structure and maintain institutional integrity.
Interestingly, SSANU’s statement also expressed gratitude to the redeployed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Engr. K. O. Ojo. The union lauded his brief tenure for its transparency, fairness, and positive contributions to the university’s growth. This acknowledgment contrasts sharply with their criticisms of the Vice-Chancellor, further emphasizing the growing dissatisfaction among staff.
Among its key demands, SSANU urged the university management to immediately implement the Governing Council’s decisions on outstanding allowances. They stressed that any further delay in addressing these issues would only deepen the divide between staff and management.
When contacted for comment, Dr. Wale Balogun, the Special Adviser on Media to the Vice-Chancellor, declined to directly address the allegations. Instead, he referred to a statement issued by a coalition of staff unions at FUOYE.
The coalition dismissed SSANU’s accusations as baseless, speculative, and politically motivated. They argued that the claims lacked credible evidence and were designed to tarnish the reputation of the Vice-Chancellor.
Amid these conflicting narratives, SSANU is calling on the university’s Governing Council and other relevant authorities to act swiftly. The union emphasized the need for immediate intervention to restore harmony within the institution, uphold its reputation, and safeguard the welfare of both staff and students.
As these allegations continue to stir controversy, the future of leadership at FUOYE hangs in the balance. The outcome of these claims will not only impact the university’s administrative direction but also set a precedent for handling such disputes in Nigeria’s academic institutions.
