Controversy Trails Appointment of UNIMED Vice-Chancellor and Registrar Designate
The appointment processes for the Vice-Chancellor and Registrar of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, have sparked widespread controversy, raising questions about the institution’s adherence to due process and respect for the rule of law governing the University.
Allegations have emerged that the newly appointed Registrar, Mr Imoleayo Adeniran, played a direct role in shortlisting candidates for the position. Critics claim that Mr. Adeniran deliberately excluded several qualified applicants to facilitate his own appointment. Observers have questioned why the Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof Ayodele Arowojolu, did not constitute Council and Senate Selection committee to oversee the recruitment process as entrenched in the UNIMED’s Condition of Service/Regulations governing the Conditions of Service of employees on CONTISS 06/ CONUASS 01 and Above; and the situation could be described as a “mockery of due process and in flagrant disobedience to the University extant laws.”
On the Vice-Chancellor’s appointment, the controversy deepens as reports indicate that the UNIMED Governing Council proceeded with interviews for the position despite an express court injunction ordering the suspension of the process by Hon Justice FS Akinbinu Suit, No AK/399/2024 in the High Court of Justice, Ondo State, holding at Akure and Notice of Appeal for stay of proceedings and execution.. Sources claim the Council not only ignored the court’s directive but also obstructed legal attempts to enforce it. A court bailiff known as Mr Sola, who was sent to serve the Motion on Notice for stay of execution and Notice of Appeal/ proceedings brought pursuant to order 31 rule 1 of the Court (Civil procedure rules and under the inherent jurisdiction of the Court) was allegedly threatened and prevented by one Mr Owoeye Emmanuel Segun (UNIMED, CSO) from delivering/pasting the court order on the university premises.
Critics argue that the council’s actions undermine the credibility of the institution and the respect for judicial authority in Ondo State, a state often lauded for its tradition of obedience to law and order.
Prominent voices are now calling on the Executive Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to intervene. This is a matter of urgent concern. “We can not afford to let such actions tarnish Ondo State’s reputation,” a concerned stakeholder said.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders and legal experts are closely monitoring developments, with many urging for a review of the processes to ensure accountability, probity, and compliance with the law governing the administration of the University.
UNIMED’s management and the state government are yet to officially comment on the allegations.
