Coalition Urges Ondo Governor to Withhold UNIMED VC Appointment Amid Legal Disputes.
The Coalition of Ondo State Indigenes Against Corruption, led by Mr Love Olawumi, has called on Governor Orimisan Ayedatiwa not to approve or act on the Vice-Chancellor appointment report recently submitted by the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) Council.
The coalition cited ongoing legal proceedings at the Court of Appeal, Akure Division, questioning the legality of the interview process for the position.
In a related development, the National Industrial Court (NIC) in Akure, presided over by Justice K.D. Damulak, has scheduled a hearing for 25 March 2025 in a suit filed by Professor Adolphus Odogun Loto against UNIMED Council and its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adesegun Olayiwola Fatusi.
Professor Loto, the former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Clinical Services), claims his removal from office on 9th, May 2024 was unlawful. His removal allegedly followed allegations raised against financial improprieties, contract fraud, and administrative misconduct involving Professor Fatusi and other senior university officials.
The claimant is seeking several reliefs, including his reinstatement to complete his tenure, payment of outstanding entitlements, and compensation of ₦25 million for reputational damage and legal expenses. He also seeks access to personal belongings worth over ₦325 million, which he claims have been locked in his former office since his removal.
The case, filed under Suit No. NICN/AK/22/2024, underscores ongoing tensions at the university amid accusations of corruption and administrative irregularities.
In another twist by the coalition of Ondo State indigene against corruption (CSO), there’s going to be a serious protest against UNIMED Council and management in another seven (7) days to drive home their demands against UNIMED unlawful imposition of unqualified Registrar, Mr Imoleayo Adeniran and their illegal Vice-Chancellor’s selection mode amidst disobedience to Court order and injunctions.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa is yet to respond to the coalition’s appeal or the unfolding legal drama.
