Edo State University Uzairue is embroiled in a deepening administrative crisis as staff members call for urgent action from Governor Monday Okpebholo to address allegations of corruption, high-handedness, and disregard for due process leveled against the institution’s suspended Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dawood Egbefo, and Registrar, Mr. Habib Ekhalefo.
The controversy has sparked unrest within the university community following allegations of financial misconduct, including contract splitting and mismanagement of funds. These claims led to the suspension of the two officials by the university’s Governing Council on November 4, 2024.
In a detailed petition to Governor Okpebholo, staff members accused the suspended officials of defying the suspension orders by continuing to hold meetings, make decisions, and intimidate employees who complied with the Council’s directives.
The letter, which was also sent to the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, the Attorney General, and other top state officials, alleged that the suspended Acting Vice Chancellor and Registrar had established a “climate of fear” on campus. Staff members reportedly faced threats, unlawful disciplinary actions, and attempts to withhold their salaries for adhering to the Council’s suspension directive.
Among the grievances raised, staff highlighted are; Blocked Promotions – They claim approved promotions were deliberately obstructed to punish those not aligned with the suspended officials.
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They also alleged that nearly 100 appointments were made without due process, with ongoing efforts to confirm these appointments hurriedly.
In addition they question the use of questionable committees to target employees supporting the Council’s decisions.
The staff’s petition warned that the ongoing crisis could lead to an exodus of valuable academic personnel, further destabilizing the young institution. They called on Governor Okpebholo to take decisive action to enforce the suspension orders, ensure adherence to institutional guidelines, and restore stability to the university.
“There is an urgent need to protect the university’s integrity and foster an environment conducive to academic excellence,” the petition stated, expressing confidence in the governor’s ability to address the matter swiftly.
