The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has warned the national leadership of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) led by Comrade Muhammad Haruna Ibrahim, to desist from what it described as “political blackmail and malicious propaganda” against the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina.
According to a report by the Nation newspaper, the University in a statement on Tuesday by the Special Adviser on Media to the VC, Dr. Wole Balogun, condemned what it called SSANU’s “desperate and unrelenting smear campaign”, alleging it has resorted to spreading rumours the VC was involved in political manoeuvring ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti Governorship poll.
“Such claims are indeed laughable, unfortunate, and utterly false,” the statement reads.
“Professor Fasina is an academic and administrator of high repute, not a politician. His record of integrity and professionalism is unquestionable.”
The University described the accusations as “lies from the pit of hell”, alleging several members of SSANU’s leadership in FUOYE have been involved in acts of gross misconduct, violence and indiscipline on campus.
The statement accused some FUOYE SSANU leaders of attempting to disrupt a peaceful meeting of staff on October 14, 2025, convened by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Senator Ndoma Egba (SAN).
The University alleged violent conduct of these individuals was witnessed by other union leaders, staff members and security operatives, who even recorded video evidence of their actions.
It said it was on the basis of this that security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps, invited the SSANU officials for questioning.
“However, reports indicate that even at the Office of the Commissioner of Police, the individuals displayed further unruly and disrespectful behaviour.
“The same characters who now parade themselves as defenders of justice have a well-documented record of insubordination and violence,” the statement continued.
“If anyone should be investigated for plans to disrupt the peace or the forthcoming elections, it should be these local SSANU leaders, not Professor Fasina.”
The University further reiterated Fasina’s record in public service remains unblemished, particularly in matters related to elections.
It cited his role as the INEC Returning Officer for the Imo State Governorship Election, saying it was widely acknowledged as one of the most peaceful and transparent polls.
“Professor Fasina has always been a law-abiding, peace-loving academic. Since assuming office on 11 February 2021, several elections have been held in Ekiti State without any controversy involving him. The allegations being circulated are baseless, mischievous, and politically motivated,” the statement concluded.
The University called on the national leadership of SSANU to caution its members and put an end to further acts of political blackmail or attempts to malign the reputation of Fasina and the institution.
SOURCE: THE NATION NEWSPAPER