University Staff SSANU In Ekiti Petition Minister To Probe Sexual Harassment, Victimisation Allegations Against Vice-Chancellor

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According to the petition, Adebayo alleged that she was subjected to harassment and later victimised after resisting advances from the Vice-Chancellor.

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at the Federal University Oye Ekiti branch, has petitioned the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, urging him to take immediate action to address allegations of sexual harassment, victimisation, and other governance irregularities at the institution.

In a letter signed by SSANU Chairman, Benjamin Faleye, and the branch secretary, Ayomikun Aluko, the union detailed troubling accusations against the Vice Chancellor, Prof Abayomi Fasina, including claims of sexual harassment and victimisation brought forward by Engr. Mrs. F. Adebayo, the former Director of the Works and Services Unit.

According to the petition, Adebayo alleged that she was subjected to harassment and later victimised after resisting advances from the Vice-Chancellor.

The union disclosed that Adebayo initially reported the incident in February 2024 and that her family sent a follow-up letter in October 2024, reiterating their call for action.

Both communications were attached to SSANU’s petition for the minister's review.

SSANU also raised concerns about Prof. Fasina’s governance style, alleging abuse of office, financial mismanagement, and failure to comply with university service schemes. 

They claimed that qualified non-teaching staff were being overlooked in favour of teaching staff for leadership roles in non-teaching units, contrary to established regulations.

The petition requested the minister’s intervention to Investigate the allegations of sexual harassment and victimisation to ensure due process in staff appointments and welfare policies.

To also uphold professionalism by appointing qualified non-teaching staff to lead relevant units.

“Your intervention is critical to safeguarding the integrity of the institution and ensuring a harmonious working environment,” the union wrote.

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 According to the petition, "Mr. Ademola Ojo, a staff member, was unjustly queried and issued a warning for advising a contractor to comply with established building lines-a clear case of victimisation for professional diligence. Similarly, Mr. Samuel Adeleye was unjustly issued a warning letter for not providing a document, that was not in his coffers. And a plethora of other cases within the University."

However, the Union has previously raised concerns about intimidation and administrative recklessness in a submission to the immediate past Governing Council Chairman, which is also attached.

SSANU explained that there are allegations of financial mismanagement under Prof. Fasina's leadership, particularly concerning the university's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and other administrative practices.

"These require a thorough and independent investigation to restore confidence in the institution's governance.

"The appointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Adeoye, a teaching staff member, as Deputy Director of the Academic Planning Unit contravenes the established Scheme of Service of the University, which reserves this role for professional staff within the unit," SSANU stated.

It said, "Similarly, the reappointment of Dr. (Mrs.) Esan as Director of DETIE (formerly CEDISS) disregards the requirement that this position be held by a qualified professional staff member who has progressed through the ranks of the unit."

SSANU noted that the persistent usurpation of leadership positions in non-teaching units by teaching staff-such as the University Farm Unit, Guidance and Counselling Unit, and SIWES Unit-undermines professionalism and violates the Nigerian Public Service Rules.

"We trust in your esteemed office to provide the leadership and oversight required to address these pressing concerns. Relevant documents, including Engr. Mrs. F. Adebayo's letters and other supporting materials, are attached for your review and action.

"Your prompt intervention will greatly contribute to restoring harmony, professionalism, and accountability at FUOYE," SSANU said.

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