The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Abuja chapter, has sounded a clarion call for transparency as the search for the institution’s next Vice-Chancellor intensifies. This development comes amidst growing interest from aspirants eager to take up the prestigious role, with stakeholders closely monitoring the unfolding process.
In an exclusive interaction with LEADERSHIP, ASUU’s UniAbuja chapter chairman, Dr. Sylvanus Ugoh, emphasized the union’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the selection process adheres to due process and the university’s governing laws. Speaking on behalf of the union, Dr. Ugoh shed light on the principles guiding ASUU’s position, reaffirming the importance of fairness and the integrity of the university’s leadership selection.
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A Call for Neutrality and Integrity
ASUU has been categorical in maintaining neutrality, distancing itself from endorsing any specific candidate vying for the Vice-Chancellorship. “We have no special interest in any of the applicants. Our stance is solely to uphold transparency and ensure that the university’s credibility remains intact,” Dr. Ugoh stated.
While many institutions often find themselves ensnared in controversies during leadership transitions, the University of Abuja is determined to avoid such pitfalls. Dr. Ugoh urged all stakeholders, including aspirants and governing council members, to follow the rules laid out in the University of Abuja Act and the University Miscellaneous Provisions Act, emphasizing that these laws are unambiguous on the selection process for principal officers.
Watching Closely: ASUU’s Role in Oversight
The union has committed to monitoring the process vigilantly, ready to voice concerns should irregularities surface. “We will not hesitate to raise an alarm if there’s a deviation from established procedures or any compromise in the selection process,” Dr. Ugoh warned.
This firm stance aims to prevent the recurrence of past missteps where political interference and favoritism cast shadows over key appointments in Nigerian institutions. By advocating for transparency and inclusivity, ASUU hopes to restore public confidence in university leadership selections, ensuring that merit prevails.
Growing Concerns Amidst Governance Pressure
Despite assurances from the university’s governing council that the selection process is being handled with impartiality, concerns linger about potential undue influence. Stakeholders within and outside the academic community have raised alarms over allegations of favoritism, which, if unchecked, could erode trust in the process.
ASUU’s proactive approach underscores the necessity of a robust, transparent system. “This is not just about filling a vacancy; it’s about safeguarding the future of the University of Abuja as a beacon of academic excellence,” Dr. Ugoh noted.
Moving Forward: Building a Credible Legacy
For the governing council, this is an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to upholding the institution’s reputation. With ASUU acting as a watchdog, the council faces the critical task of navigating this process transparently, ensuring the next Vice-Chancellor is selected purely on merit and in line with the university’s regulations.
Conclusion
As the race for the University of Abuja’s Vice-Chancellorship heats up, ASUU’s call for transparency and neutrality stands as a reminder of the value of integrity in leadership transitions. The process’s outcome will not only define the future of the university but also set a precedent for similar exercises across Nigerian academic institutions.
For more details on this unfolding story, read the original report on Leadership.ng.
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