Introduction
On behalf of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria in Diaspora, and staff of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, we acknowledge receipt of the Edo State Government’s announcement dated April 6, 2026, regarding administrative changes within our State University.
Concerns Regarding Due Process
While we appreciate His Excellency’s concern for staff welfare and the timely release of funds, we must respectfully express grave reservations about the manner in which the removal of a principal officer—the University Bursar—was announced without due consultation with the Governing Council. By law and by the standards of the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Governing Council remains the appropriate authority to deliberate and decide on such matters. A University is not a ministry or local government department; it is governed by established statutes, rules, and regulations that must be observed.
Financial Accountability and Responsibility
The core issue at hand is the ₦1 billion bailout fund graciously released by His Excellency, which was allegedly fixed by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Eunice Omonzeje, in collaboration with the Bursar. It is important to emphasize that the Vice Chancellor, by all standards of the NUC and University regulations, is the Chief Accounting Officer of the institution. She gives directives and approvals on financial matters affecting the day-to-day running of the University. Therefore, it is legally and administratively untenable to remove the Bursar while leaving the Vice Chancellor, who bears ultimate responsibility for financial approvals and disbursements.
Moreover, both the Vice Chancellor and the Bursar are signatories to all University accounts. Consequently, both are allegedly culpable in the mismanagement of funds and should be treated equally under the principles of accountability and fairness, Your Excellency.
Administrative Dysfunction
We find it troubling that March salaries and the bailout funds intended for staff welfare during the Easter period were withheld under the Vice Chancellor’s leadership. This failure has caused undue hardship and eroded trust in the University’s administration. Furthermore, reports indicate that official correspondence from last year remains unattended in the Vice Chancellor’s office, and that the Deputy Vice Chancellor has been irregularly directed to approve matters in her stead, despite her being present. Such practices reflect administrative dysfunction and disregard for due process.
Call for Corrective Measures
Stakeholders therefore urge His Excellency to complete the corrective process by removing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Eunice Omonzeje, whose leadership has been characterized by divisive governance, dictatorial tendencies, and disregard for institutional standards. We also call for the removal of the Internal Auditor, whose appointment was not subjected to due advertisement or competitive process, contrary to established norms.
Additionally, we have on good record that there is a disconnect between the Registry and the Vice Chancellor. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Eunice Omonzeje, signs all memos from the Senate and Council, whereas the Registrar ought to sign as the Secretary to Council and Senate. The Vice Chancellor should not be protected in this regard; otherwise, we shall take further steps on this matter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while we commend His Excellency’s commitment to repositioning Ambrose Alli University, we strongly advise that future interventions respect the autonomy of the Governing Council, in line with Federal Government and NUC standards. Only by adhering to these principles can the University be restored to administrative efficiency, financial transparency, and academic excellence.
Respectfully,
Dr. Ohiku OhipoWriting from Canada on behalf of Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma Stakeholders in Diaspora