A leadership crisis has erupted at the University of Abuja (Yakubu Gowon University) following the appointment of Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi as Vice-Chancellor, amid allegations that the Governing Council violated its own advertised requirements.
The university’s vacancy notice had made possession of a Ph.D. mandatory, in line with NUC regulations.
However, the new VC reportedly holds a Fellowship rather than a doctoral degree—an equivalence recently rejected by the National Industrial Court in a case involving the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA).
A statement by the Concerned Alumni Stakeholders said the ruling strengthens arguments that the appointment may be invalid, insisting that advertised criteria are legally binding and cannot be altered after the selection process begins.
Legal experts warn that departing from published requirements exposes the appointment to judicial nullification under the doctrine of ultra vires.
Stakeholders also note that other shortlisted candidates, including a Ph.D. holder who excelled at all screening stages, met the criteria fully.
Analysts caution that ignoring the issue could trigger litigation, regulatory sanctions, and reputational damage.
They say the controversy is now a major test of Nigeria’s commitment to transparent university governance.
All eyes are now on the Governing Council, NUC, and Federal Government as pressure mounts to review the appointment or risk prolonged institutional uncertainty.
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