The crisis over who becomes the next Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan (UI) on Wednesday took a new twist as the staff of the institution protested against alleged plans to impose a new helmsman on the institution.
The UI staff comprising mainly members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria University (SSANU) and other unions locked all the gates leading to the University campus.
According to sources at the institution, the protesting workers were alleging that the authorities of the University were insisting on imposing one of the six candidates already shortlisted for the vice chancellorship seat.
The protesters also alleged of plans by the University of Ibadan authorities to do away with the wish of the populace regarding the selection of a new Vice Chancellor.
The University of Ibadan Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, when contacted confirmed the protest, saying, the staff have right to protest.
“Well, they have right to protest. It is an appointment process. They have to shortlist. It is a process. They have shortlisted six out of 18 and the six will meet the selection Board.”
The shortlisted candidates are; Prof Kayode Adebowale, Professor Olusegun Ademowo, Professor Olatunde Farombi, Professor Abideen Aderinto, Professor Babatunde Salako and Professor Femi Mimiko.
Meanwhile, the chairman of the university council, Dr Joshua Waklek, has announced the suspension of the process.
While announcing the suspension to the non-academic staff who besieged council chambers, Waklek also promised to meet with the protesting staff on Friday to critically look into their demands.
