
VC Appointment Crisis Deepens at Federal University Dutsin-Ma
The Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) in Katsina State is embroiled in a fresh controversy over the selection of its next Vice Chancellor (VC). Prof. Rasheed Hamzat, a contender for the position, has accused the governing council of violating federal guidelines, sparking outrage and calls for transparency.
The Controversy Unfolds
Since its establishment in 2010, FUDMA has faced repeated turmoil in VC appointments. The latest crisis erupted after the university’s governing council shortlisted six candidates for the role, prompting allegations of procedural breaches.
Prof. Hamzat, a Professor of Agriculture, escalated the dispute by writing a three-page letter to Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa. The letter, obtained exclusively by Daily Trust, alleges:
- Ignored Experience Criteria: Shortlisted candidates include professors with less than 3 years’ experience, violating the 10-year requirement.
- Age Limit Overlooked: Some aspirants exceed the 64-year age cap for VC appointments.
- Biased Committee: The selection panel’s composition allegedly breaches federal guidelines.
Key Allegations from Prof. Hamzat’s Letter
- Experience Shortfalls:“The guidelines mandate a minimum of 10 years as a professor. Shockingly, some candidates have less than three.”
- Age Non-Compliance:“The VC must not exceed 64 years upon appointment. The council’s advertorial disregarded this rule.”
- Flawed Committee Structure:
Hamzat argues the panel lacks neutrality, favoring unqualified candidates.
Broader Implications for Academic Governance
This scandal highlights systemic issues in Nigerian academia:
- Erosion of Standards: Relaxing criteria risks appointing underqualified leaders.
- Accountability Gaps: Weak oversight enables recurring crises at FUDMA.
- Student and Staff Impact: Prolonged instability disrupts research and learning.
Calls for Transparency
Stakeholders demand urgent intervention from the Education Ministry to:
- Audit the shortlisting process.
- Disqualify ineligible candidates.
- Reconstitute the selection committee per federal guidelines.
Join the Conversation!
Should the federal government enforce stricter oversight in university appointments? Have you witnessed similar issues in academic institutions? Share your views below!
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Why This Matters:
Credible leadership is vital for academic excellence. FUDMA’s crisis underscores the need for transparency in Nigeria’s educational institutions—a step toward restoring trust and meritocracy.
Follow our coverage as this developing story unfolds.
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