The Campaign for Academic Freedom and Excellence (CAFE) Thursday demanded transparency and fairness in the ongoing processes towards the selection of a new vice chancellor for the University of Ibadan.
The body in a statement signed by its coordinator, Ayanlola Ayanteju, and made available to journalists in Ibadan stated that for a transparent process, there is the need for an independent electoral body for the selection of a new vice chancellor for the nation’s premier university, the University of Ibadan.
The group said with the adoption of the e-voting method, there is the need for an independent electoral body to ensure the selection of a credible candidate as well as conduct a free and fair selection process.
“We appeal for an electoral body that will be actually independent to ensure that they mitigate the reoccurrence of some of the complaints and controversies that trailed the previous congregational election during which we gathered many non-academic staff members were excluded from participating in the election,” it said.
CAFE stated further that: “The body should be insulated from any influence from the authority or any group controversies that trailed the recently concluded congregational election.”
“However, we wish to use this medium to make some suggestions which we hope will assist the electoral body saddled with the responsibility of organising the election of a new VC, especially as it has reached a critical stage with the call for the expression of interest from candidates willing to serve on the Joint Council and Senate Selection Board.
“We will also advise ASUU to set up an election monitoring body, to be made up of respected members, as independent observers whose duty would be to ensure that no form of manipulation is allowed to taint the electoral process.”
” This will protect the integrity and sanctity of the process, and make the outcome acceptable to all. The union should be prepared to do this to retain the nobility of the institution and in tandem with the spirit of the Motto of University of Ibadan: ‘Recte Sapere Fons: For knowledge and sound judgement.’
“A stitch in time, they say, saves nine. The university must not be plunged to another avoidable crisis of confidence which from all implications can polarise the university and divert attention from its main duties of teaching, research and community service. This may take the university many years backward, and one which can affect its future rating.”
CAFE stated that the current status of the university as evidenced by its recent rating as the best University in West Africa was made possible through the efforts of the administration, dedicated staff and the labour of our past heroes who laid the foundation of excellence which we must continue to build upon.”
