The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has been embroiled in controversy after allegations surfaced against the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina. However, a coalition of staff unions has swiftly come to his defense, dismissing the allegations as baseless and malicious.
The allegations, which included claims of reversing appointments, sexual harassment, staff intimidation, and abuse of office, were described by the unions as a smear campaign orchestrated by disgruntled individuals. The unions, comprising the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Congress of Nigerian Academics (CONUA), Non-Academic Staff of Universities (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), issued a joint statement condemning the allegations.
According to the unions, the allegations are speculative, lack credible evidence, and are driven by political motives. They alleged that the accusations are part of a coordinated effort to discredit Professor Fasina ahead of the 2025 Vice-Chancellorship race. The unions expressed confidence that the current campaign would fail, citing overwhelming support for the Vice-Chancellor from the university community.
The unions highlighted Professor Fasina’s significant achievements during his tenure, including the promotion of over 500 non-teaching staff and 100 teaching staff, prioritizing staff welfare, and securing research grants worth millions of dollars. They also noted that the university has experienced remarkable institutional growth under his leadership.
Addressing the call for a financial probe, the unions emphasized that Professor Fasina’s tenure has been marked by transparency and accountability. They noted that a forensic audit of the university’s accounts confirmed the integrity of the administration’s financial management.
The unions called on stakeholders and members of the public to disregard the allegations, which they described as politically motivated and unsubstantiated. They urged the university community to continue supporting Professor Fasina’s administration, which they credited with transformative achievements that have significantly advanced FUOYE’s standing
