The Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), a leading civil society organization, has strongly condemned the recent petition by a faction of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) accusing the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina, of sexual harassment, victimization, and governance irregularities.
In a statement issued and signed by its Secretary, Olalekan Johnson, the CPA, described the petition as part of a continued series of politically motivated attacks aimed at tarnishing the reputation of Professor Fasina. According to the CPA, these baseless allegations are part of a deliberate campaign of calumny against a highly regarded academic and administrator who has made significant contributions to the advancement of FUOYE.
The CPA reaffirmed its confidence in Professor Fasina, describing him as a man of impeccable character and an outstanding academic leader both within Nigeria and internationally. “Professor Fasina’s record of achievements at FUOYE remains indelible. His leadership has propelled the institution to new heights of academic excellence and development. The baseless accusations against him are unfounded and politically motivated,” the statement read.
The statement also commended the Senate and Governing Council of FUOYE for their swift and decisive action in passing a vote of confidence in the Vice Chancellor. This move, the CPA noted, was a resounding endorsement of Professor Fasina’s leadership amidst the frivolous allegations.
“The support from the Senate and Governing Council sends a clear message that FUOYE stands firmly behind its leadership,” the CPA added.
Furthermore, the CPA cautioned those behind the smear campaign against turning FUOYE into a battleground for dirty politics. It warned that such actions only serve to disrespect the institution and undermine its academic integrity. “FUOYE is a respected institution of higher learning, and it must not be turned into a platform for personal vendettas or political maneuvering,” the organization stated.
The CPA concluded by restating its unwavering support for Professor Abayomi Fasina and pledging continued confidence in his ability to lead FUOYE to greater achievements. “The Centre for Public Accountability stands firmly behind Professor Fasina. We will continue to offer our support as he leads FUOYE to new heights of excellence,” the statement concluded.