The situation at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, as described, reflects serious concerns regarding the integrity of the process for appointing principal officials, including the Vice Chancellor, Bursar, registrar, and librarian. The allegations of mismanagement, procedural violations, and the undermining of the established guidelines by the University’s governing council are troubling, as they suggest a lack of transparency and fairness in selecting key leadership positions as alleged by the Stakeholders and leaders within the University and Environs. Several key points stand out in this crisis:
1. Procedural Violations: The process for advertising and shortlisting candidates was allegedly manipulated by the Council Chairman, with changes made to the advertisement in ways that could favor specific individuals. The deviation from the standard merit-based process raises significant concerns.
2. Involvement of External Personnel: The introduction of external secretariat personnel, who were not part of the university’s established processes, further complicates the situation. The absence of critical internal figures such as the acting registrar and the council secretary, who should have been integral to the process, creates doubts about the fairness and legitimacy of the appointments.
3. Questionable Candidate Selection: The failure to adhere to the selection criteria, especially for the Vice-Chancellor role, is another red flag. The requirement for candidates to have significant academic leadership experience was allegedly not met, and individuals with questionable backgrounds were reportedly shortlisted. Age falsification accusations and the involvement of individuals with a controversial past only add to the concerns.
4. Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Key questions remain unanswered, such as who designed the screening templates and how the chairman was able to carry out such a significant selection process without input from other key officials. The signing of the recommended names without the involvement of the acting registrar or council staff suggests a lack of proper oversight. We advise that government should be careful with individual or group of individuals who are busy holding political meetings with PDP to destabilize the University. Most worrisome is the appointment of the University internal Auditor that was never advertised by the council,but an appointment into the position was made. You can’t build something on nothing. Given these allegations, there is a strong case for an independent investigation into the selection process. This would be necessary to ensure that the University’s leadership selection is conducted in line with established policies, with full transparency and accountability, and to restore public trust in the institution. Addressing these issues would not only help in maintaining the University’s reputation but also ensure that its leadership is chosen on merit, thereby fostering academic excellence and integrity.
Osaze Emioupa
