FUOYE: SSANU Alleges Sexual Harassment, Intimidation by Vice-Chancellor, Demands Investigation
The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) chapter, has accused the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Sunday Fasina, of sexual harassment, staff victimization, and creating a hostile working environment.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by key union leaders, including Benjamin Faleye (Chairman), Emmanuel Akinsola (Financial Secretary), Simeon Olausi (Vice-Chairman), and others, SSANU called for an independent investigation into these allegations. They also demanded a probe into the university’s financial operations during Fasina’s tenure, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
The union alleged that the Vice-Chancellor’s actions had fostered intimidation, particularly against union members, and undermined staff morale. They claimed his leadership style had led to administrative recklessness and abuse of office, eroding confidence in the institution’s governance.
Beyond accusations of harassment, SSANU pointed to irregularities in financial management under Fasina’s administration. They demanded a comprehensive review of the university’s finances to ensure proper accountability and adherence to ethical practices.
The union also criticized the appointment of teaching staff to non-teaching roles, describing it as a deviation from standard university protocols. Members urged the Governing Council to reverse such placements to maintain administrative integrity.
The statement commended the redeployed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Engr. K. O. Ojo, for his brief but impactful tenure, which the union described as transparent and growth-oriented. In contrast, they expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership, calling on relevant authorities to intervene and restore harmony within the institution.
SSANU’s demands included:
A full probe into allegations of misconduct against Prof. Fasina.
Immediate implementation of Governing Council decisions regarding outstanding staff allowances.
Reinstatement of staff into appropriate roles in line with university practices.
When contacted for a response, Dr. Wale Balogun, Special Adviser on Media to the Vice-Chancellor, referred journalists to a statement from a coalition of staff unions at FUOYE. The coalition dismissed the allegations against Prof. Fasina as baseless, malicious, and politically motivated, arguing that the claims lacked credible evidence.
The coalition emphasized that the accusations were speculative and intended to tarnish the Vice-Chancellor’s reputation.
As these allegations continue to generate public attention, stakeholders are urging the university’s Governing Council to act swiftly. The demand for a thorough investigation aims to ensure accountability, safeguard the welfare of staff and students, and restore confidence in FUOYE’s administration.
While tensions remain high, many within the FUOYE community are hopeful that decisive action will resolve the issues and bring stability to the institution.