Wukari Varsity: Governor's Brother Appointed VC Amidst Row

The Governing Council of Federal University Wukari has officially announced the appointment of Professor Benjamin Kefas, the biological brother of Governor Agbu Kefas, as the institution's new substantive Vice-Chancellor. This key decision was made on Monday and publicly released on Tuesday, sparking a significant controversy and prompting petitions to the Federal Ministry of Education.

New Leadership at Federal University Wukari

In addition to Professor Kefas's appointment, the governing council also approved Dr Temboge Andrew as the university's new Librarian. These crucial appointments were formally sanctioned during a meeting held at the Secretariat of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities in Abuja.

Transition of University Management

The changes in leadership follow the conclusion of the five-year tenures of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jude Sammani Rabo, and the University Librarian, Dr Isa Sidi Attahir. The announcement, released on Tuesday by Mrs Agya Ashu, Acting Director of the Information and Protocol department at the University, detailed the transition process.

Controversy Surrounding Professor Kefas's Appointment

Professor Kefas's elevation to Vice-Chancellor has not been without contention. Concerns have been raised, leading to formal petitions submitted to both the Federal Ministry of Education and the National University Commission. Individuals from Southern Taraba have voiced apprehension that the selection process may have been unduly influenced by external forces, especially given the new Vice-Chancellor's familial ties to Governor Agbu Kefas. This situation highlights potential issues of politics in academic appointments.

Claims of Transparency Dismissed

Despite the allegations, sources from the Secretariat of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities have firmly refuted claims of impropriety. They insist that the entire selection procedure was conducted with complete transparency and remained free from any external interference. This statement aims to address the growing speculation regarding the legitimacy of the appointments.

Rigorous Selection Process

Reports indicate that over thirty candidates initially applied for the esteemed position of Vice-Chancellor, with four ultimately being shortlisted for interview. Similarly, two individuals applied for the role of University Librarian. All four shortlisted candidates for the Vice-Chancellor position hailed from Southern Taraba. The interviews for both key roles were held on Monday, culminating in the late Monday approval of Professor Kefas and Dr Andrew for their respective posts.