joshuaEdo State University Governing Council Refutes Alleged Suspension Of Acting VC Prof., Egbefo
…Says no decision was ever made by members to suspend the Acting VC
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City
The Governing Council of Edo State University, Uzairue has debunked the alleged suspension of the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dawood O. Egbefo, by the Chairman of the Governing Council, Emeritus, Prof. T.O.K. Audu, and the alleged appointment of Engr. Prof. M.J.E. Evbogbai as Acting Vice-Chancellor, says no such decision was ever reached or made to suspend the Acting VC
In a communique reached after the Extraordinary Governing Council Meeting on Wednesday 6th November, 2024 and signed by Habib I. Ekhalefo, Registrar/Secretary to Governing Council stated that Prof. Dawood Omolumen Egbefo, appointed by the Visitor of the University, remains the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, as confirmed in the letter dated 31st May 2024 from the Ministry of Education; and unless otherwise advised through the same channels.
The communique further stated that the Governing Council does not have the authority to appoint or suspend any Acting Vice Chancellor or Vice-Chancellor but may only make recommendations to the Visitor through the Commissioners of Education should such actions be deemed necessary.
“The appointment of Engr. Prof. M.J.E. Evbogbai as Acting Vice-Chancellor by the Chairman of the Governing Council, Emeritus Prof. T.O.K. Audu, is not recognized by the Governing Council and was made without the Council’s approval.
“Engr. Prof. Evbogbai is to be formally notified to cease presenting himself as the Acting Vice Chancellor, and failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.
Also, Any actions taken by the purported Acting Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. M.J.E. Evbogbai, are declared null and void.
Adding that, The Governing Council acts and shall continue to always act in the best interest of the University. Any issues that would affect the University should be properly channeled and addressed by the Governing Council in meeting,” the statement concluded.
The Nigerian Post recalls that the Acting VC Prof Egbefo was allegedly suspended on Monday November 4th by the chairman of the governing council Prof Emeritus Thomas Audu without the approval of other members.
According to the letter, ” Prof. Dawood Egbefo suspension borders on allegations of Contract Splitting, Siphoning of University Funds and Non Compliance with Due process and his outright display of incompetence in the management of the University’s affairs”.
