Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has been thrown into fresh turmoil as a bitter leadership tussle pits Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olubunmi Shittu, against the university’s Pro-Chancellor, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, and suspended Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Fasina.
According to multiple insider sources, Prof. Shittu has faced deliberate sabotage, withheld documents, and internal resistance, leaving the administration of the institution in near paralysis.
One senior staffer told SaharaReporters:
“The system is practically shut down. His leadership journey has been like walking blindfolded.”
Allegations of Sabotage and Manipulation
From the outset, Prof. Shittu allegedly received no formal handover from Fasina, who was suspended earlier over sexual harassment allegations. Instead, key briefs and documents crucial for decision-making were either delayed or never submitted at all.
Despite being in suspension, Prof. Fasina reportedly continued to exert influence by sending in preferred lists of candidates for Deans, Directors, and Heads of Departments—many of whom eventually emerged victorious in elections.
“This has raised questions about the legitimacy of the process,” a source revealed, describing Fasina’s shadow involvement as a clear violation of university norms.
Internal Battles and Frozen Appointments
The controversy worsened on July 31, 2025, when the Registrar released a contentious list of appointments, bypassing Prof. Shittu’s authority. The Bursar, Mrs. Adebola Debo-Ajagunna, also objected, citing lack of consultation on financial implications.
But Prof. Shittu dismissed those concerns, insisting that such appointments carry no new financial burden, since “positions must be occupied yearly regardless of who holds them.”
Sources claim Ndoma-Egba and Fasina are using internal actors like the Bursar to challenge Shittu’s reforms and frustrate his efforts.
Ndoma-Egba Orders Suspension of Appointments
In a dramatic twist, Ndoma-Egba, the Council Chairman, wrote directly to Prof. Shittu on the same day the list was published, ordering the suspension of new postings.
He demanded explanations on the financial implications and the role of other principal officers in the decision-making.
Prof. Shittu, however, stood his ground, citing the FUOYE Establishment Act (2015) and the 2022 Senior Staff Regulations, which empower the Vice-Chancellor to appoint Deans and Heads of Departments after due consultation.
Procurement Officer Becomes Flashpoint
While Ndoma-Egba later lifted the suspension on most appointments, he insisted that the Procurement Officer must remain unchanged, citing concerns over TETFund projects and BPP certification.
This single position has now become a symbol of the wider power struggle threatening to tear the institution apart.
Fear of Academic Breakdown
With governance at a standstill and power blocs deeply entrenched, staff morale is sinking and fears are rising that FUOYE could slide into a deeper institutional crisis if urgent interventions are not made.
“This is no longer just about leadership,” one insider warned. “It’s about whether the university can function at all.”
