By John Odunayo
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has passed a vote of confidence in the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Abayomi Fasina, describing him as a progressive-minded administrator and visionary scholar.
The SUG, led by the President, Miss Mary Olorunshola Abiodun, who gave the VC the endorsement in Wednesday, December 11, 2024, in an address to FUOYE students, said that the vote of confidence was a response to Prof. Fasina’s “unwavering support for students and his notable achievements in office over the past four years”.
Abiodun said that the union’s decision was aimed at countering unfounded allegations recently levelled against the VC by certain detractors.
Recall that the controversy emerged following a press release signed by the local branch chairman of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Mr Benjamin Faleye, and its secretary, Mrs Oluwaseun Aluko, where they raised allegations of misconduct and harassment against the VC without approval from the SSANU Congress or adherence to the university’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms.
The Governing Council, in response, initiated an investigation and issued suspension notices to Mr Faleye and Mrs Aluko for their actions, which were deemed a breach of protocol and a source of embarrassment to the university.
Following this development, the SUG met with the university’s management team and reaffirmed their support for Professor Fasina’s leadership.
Addressing over 50,000 students, Abiodun stated, “Today, the Executive Members of the FUOYE SUG unanimously passed a vote of confidence in our esteemed VC, Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina. This decision was necessitated by the recent embarrassment caused by certain factions within the local branch of SSANU.
“Prof. Fasina is an exemplary leader whose visionary leadership has catalysed unprecedented growth and development within the university. Since his inauguration over four years ago, he has overseen remarkable improvements in academic infrastructure and created an enabling environment for excellence across FUOYE’s twin campuses in Ikole and Oye.
“Under his tenure, the university has witnessed the construction of additional classrooms to address shortages, modernisation of teaching and learning facilities, and the provision of laboratory equipment.
“These efforts have bolstered FUOYE’s reputation, making it the fourth most-subscribed university in Nigeria. Prof. Fasina has also enhanced internally generated revenue (IGR) through various outreach programmes, which have financed significant infrastructural projects.
“Furthermore, our students have achieved remarkable academic successes. Notably, nine undergraduates from the Department of Accounting recently passed their ICAN examinations, becoming chartered accountants while still enrolled at FUOYE. Just two months ago, fresh graduates from this institution secured fully funded doctoral scholarships at prestigious universities in the United States and Brazil. Additionally, our students have excelled in national competitions across disciplines such as Engineering and Geology.
“Prof. Fasina has ensured a stable academic calendar by introducing online teaching platforms, which complement physical classes and prevent disruptions, particularly during the last ASUU strike. This innovation has allowed lecturers to complete course syllabuses on time while receiving appropriate remuneration.
“In terms of student welfare, Prof. Fasina has prioritised our needs by providing subsidised transportation through two Tata buses for both staff and students. His administration has continued to focus on improving campus life and fostering a conducive academic environment.
“Given his stellar performance and commitment to our growth, we unequivocally stand by Prof. Fasina. We denounce the baseless allegations designed to tarnish his reputation and affirm our solidarity with his leadership. It is on this basis that we, as representatives of over 50,000 students, pass a vote of confidence in Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina for his exceptional service and contributions to FUOYE’s advancement.”
The SUG’s endorsement underscores the VC’s pivotal role in transforming FUOYE into a centre of academic excellence and innovation, despite challenges posed by detractors. With strong support from the student body, Prof. Fasina’s leadership continues to chart a progressive course for the university’s future.
