Federal Government has directed the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Wale Babalakin, to recuse himself from official duties relating to the institution.
Spokesman of the Ministry of Education, Ben Goong, who said this in a statement on Friday, August 21, said Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe was also directed to recuse himself as Vice-Chancellor.
The statement also directed the Senate of the university to “nominate an acting vice-chancellor from amongst its members for confirmation by the Governing Council.”
He added that a panel has been set up to probe the leadership crisis rocking UNILAG.
Read Also: Why Ogundipe Was Removed As UNILAG Vice-Chancellor – Babalakin
The members of the panel are Prof Tukur Sa’ad (Chairman); Mr Victor Onuoha; Prof Ikenna Onyido; Prof Ekanem Braide; Prof Adamu Usman; Chief Jimoh Bankole and Mrs Grace Ekanem, who would serve as the secretary.
The panel’s terms of reference include;
To determine whether the process (if any) leading to the appointment of the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university was consistent with the provisions of the enabling Act and make recommendations, including sanctions, for all those found culpable.
The nominated members, according to the statement, shall;
Oversee the affairs of the university, pending government’s decision on the report of the special visitation panel.
The committee, which will be inaugurated by the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu on Wednesday, August 25, is also expected to come up with decision to assist government in ensuring peace in the university.
The Governing Council of UNILAG led by Babalakin had removed Ogundipe from office over alleged financial misappropriation and abuse of office. However Ogundipe kicked against his removal, saying due process was not followed.
Read Also: Sacked UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Ogundipe Withdraws Court Case Against Babalakin, Others
Ogundipe had filed a lawsuit at the national industrial court to challenge his removal, but withdrew the suit against; UNILAG, Babalakin, UNILAG senate; Oladejo Azeez, the institution’s registrar; and Theophilus Soyombo, the acting VC.
In a statement issued after the suit was withdrawn, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, Ogundipe’s counsel, said his client took the step after consulting stakeholders and supporters within and outside the institution.
Adegboruwa discredited claims that the court has commenced action on the ex-parte application.
