The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has thrown its weight behind the investigation initiated by the Governing Council of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) into the allegations of sexual harassment and extortion against the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina. The student body, which represents over 40 million Nigerian students, has called for a fair and impartial probe into the matter.
In a statement released on Sunday, January 25, 2025, NANS expressed its commendation for the decision taken by FUOYE’s Governing Council. The council, under the leadership of its chairman, established a committee to investigate the serious allegations leveled against the Vice Chancellor, which have stirred controversy within the university community. The allegations, which were made public after a leaked audio, claim that Professor Fasina made emotional advances toward the deputy director of works at the university, and is also accused of extorting money from the official.
The leaked audio, which went viral, has sparked widespread debate. In the recording, the vice chancellor allegedly expressed his emotional intentions toward the staff member in question. While the recording itself has not been verified by independent sources, the contents have caused an uproar within the university and beyond. As a result, the FUOYE Governing Council moved quickly to ensure a transparent investigation, citing the need to uphold the institution’s integrity and prevent further damage to its reputation.
The law firm representing Professor Fasina, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa and Co., has rejected the allegations, describing them as baseless. In a strongly worded statement, the firm called for the dismissal of what they termed as “false narratives” surrounding their client. They also stressed the need to clarify the facts and address the situation with accurate information.
However, despite the legal defense put up by Fasina’s representatives, the student body remains resolute in its call for fairness. NANS, in its statement, emphasized that the investigation must be conducted in an atmosphere of transparency, free from bias or political interference. The body affirmed that it is committed to ensuring justice is served while upholding the rights of students and the credibility of FUOYE.
“We commend the Governing Council of FUOYE for its swift and commendable decision to set up a committee to investigate the recent developments. This action reflects the leadership’s dedication to ensuring that the university remains a beacon of accountability and justice,” said Afeez Akinteye, NANS Senate President. “The integrity of FUOYE must be maintained, and as the voice of Nigerian students, we stand with the council in its efforts to uncover the truth.”
NANS also highlighted the significant reputation that Professor Fasina has built over the years, particularly with students. According to the student union, the Vice Chancellor has been regarded as a student-friendly administrator who has significantly contributed to the development and welfare of FUOYE students. His proactive approach to student welfare and his cordial relationship with the student body are frequently cited by students as some of his key strengths.
“This investigation should allow the Vice Chancellor to have a fair hearing, as we believe no one is above the law,” NANS’ statement continued. “The Vice Chancellor’s legacy as a student-friendly leader should not be easily overshadowed by what may, in the end, prove to be a mere misunderstanding or malicious attempt to tarnish his reputation.”
The student body expressed confidence in the committee selected by the Governing Council to handle the investigation. NANS commended the leadership of the council, particularly the chairman, who is widely respected for his impartiality and integrity. “We trust that under the leadership of the chairman, the investigation will be thorough, fair, and transparent. We call for all facts to be unveiled and justice to be served, whatever the outcome may be,” Akinteye stated.
The NANS statement also emphasized the importance of addressing any attempt to malign the reputation of any individual, particularly in the absence of substantial evidence. In the event that the investigation reveals that the allegations were a form of witch hunt or baseless attack, NANS warned that the council must take strong action against those involved in attempting to harm the reputation of Professor Fasina.
Furthermore, the statement reaffirmed NANS’ role in safeguarding the welfare of Nigerian students and promoting a culture of fairness across Nigerian universities. “As the largest student body in Nigeria, we remain dedicated to ensuring that justice is served in all matters concerning the rights of students and the reputation of our institutions,” said Akinteye.
The allegations against Professor Fasina come at a time when universities across the country are grappling with various issues of governance and leadership. This incident has intensified debates about accountability, transparency, and the treatment of staff within Nigerian academic institutions. The FUOYE case, in particular, has drawn attention to the importance of impartial investigations in order to maintain public trust and ensure that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly addressed.
The investigation into the FUOYE Vice Chancellor’s conduct is expected to take several weeks, with the Governing Council vowing to act decisively based on the findings of the committee. Meanwhile, students and staff alike are watching closely, hoping that the process will reflect the values of fairness and transparency that the university strives to uphold.
