As tension mounts over the selection of a new substantive vice chancellor (VC) of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO), Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno, has sued for peace, urging the gladiators to embrace due process to avoid crisis.
LEADERSHIP Weekend gathered that contending interests at the departure of the immediate past VC, Prof Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, had led to succession crisis, forcing federal government’s intervention and installation of an interim administration under the acting VC, Prof Samuel Gbadebo Odewumi, of the Lagos State University (LASU).
But the governor, an alumnus of the institution, has promised to be part of the process of the emergence of the new VC, assuring that “government will collaborate with the management to ensure a transparent and peaceful selection of a substantive VC for the institution.”
Governor Eno gave the assurance when he received the management of the university on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Uyo.
He disclosed that he was keen to ensure that the best candidate emerged for the position; “one who will have the interest of the institution at heart.
“We will work with you to the extent that will maintain peace and orderliness in the institution and the State; and then we allow God to work with you to select someone that will have the interest of the university at heart.”
He welcomed the Acting VC Odewumi, to the State, and expressed delight that he has thus far experienced the hospitality and warmth which, according to him, were characteristic of the state.
Governor Eno who is an alumnus of the institution appreciated Prof. Odewumi and his team for the visit, assuring “we will check the areas we can collaborate with the University, and we will do so because we believe in the advancement of education which is part of our ARISE Agenda.”
Prof Odewumi appreciated the governor for the support extended to the institution by the Akwa Ibom State government under his leadership.
He specifically appreciated the governor for the appointment of numerous members of the university community into his government and the State Executive Council in particular, and the setting up of a CNG bus station in the University campus to enhance movement to and from the campuses at a reduced transportation cost.
The acting vice chancellor noted that Governor Eno has been outstanding and remarkable in his achievements in less than three years in office, which, according to him, has distinguished him from his contemporaries in the country, stressing that the university was proud to have him as an alumnus.
With the governor to receive the visitors were the deputy governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; secretary to the state government, Prince Enobong Uwah; executive assistant/chief delivery advisor, Mr Aniefiok Johnson; members of the state executive council and other government officials.
Other members of the university management on the acting VC’s team included Prof Enobong Ikpeme, the acting deputy vice-chancellor (Administration), Prof Dianabasi Eduwem, the acting deputy vice-chancellor (Academic), Mrs Blossom Okorie, registrar, and Mrs Mfon Etuk, the acting bursar, Dr Mary Bassey, acting librarian, and Mr Kingsley Archibong, protocol officer to the vice-chancellor.
