By Esosa Omorogbe
The Management of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, has responded to a recent online publication alleging corruption within the institution.
In a statement issued by Otunba Mike Aladenika, Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information and Public Relations, the University clarified its position, "While we typically ignore baseless and faceless publications, we feel compelled to set the record straight in this instance."
He added that the publication's content clearly suggests an attempt by mischief makers and enemies of progress who don't mean well for the governor and our Universty, to distract the institution's progress and undermine the efforts of Governor Monday Okpebholo to reposition the University.
Aladenika noted that "the mischief makers previously thrived during the University's dark days, causing agony for thousands of students and hundreds of parents, and tarnishing the institution's image. However, with the appointment of Prof. Sunday Olowo Samuel's management team, the constitution of the Chief Dan Orbih-led Governing Council, and the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo's resolve to reposition the University, these mischief makers have been pushed to the fringes.
"The synergy between these three authorities has undeniably proven that the University is on the path to better days, which has become a sore point for these enemies of progress," Aladenika added.
The Principal Assistant Registrar and Head of Information and Public Relations further stated, "To some self-proclaimed 'concerned stakeholders,' the Management's efforts to revive the College of Medicine, induct 810 graduate nurses, induct also graduate medical doctors, address challenges facing Medical Laboratory Science students, increase enrollment intake into the University through JAMB, promote deserving staff, and implement the N70,000 minimum wage – all backed by the Governing Council and the Governor of Edo State – are perceived as corruption and dysfunction. Then, this perspective, however, can only serve the interests of mischief makers which should be discarded by all.
Regarding the issue of delayed or extended academic calendars, Aladenika clarified that "previous administrations failed to release results on time, causing students to carry over academic deficiencies into subsequent sessions and unnecessarily prolong their studies. However, the current administration, led by Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. S.O. Samuel, prioritized releasing all outstanding results before allowing new course registrations. This enabled students to address any deficiencies within the current session."
Aladenika questioned, "How can this be construed as dysfunctional and corrupt? Has the pursuit of academic excellence and student welfare become a crime?"
Regarding the alleged leakage of confidential documents, Aladenika said, "The Governing Council thoroughly processed and screened applications for the Vice-Chancellor position, recommending three candidates to the Governor for consideration. However, those dissatisfied with the process unleashed a barrage of criticisms from various angles, sparking controversy."
Aladenika then questioned, "How can this be attributed to be Management's fault? Doesn't this seem like a clear case of mischief?"
Aladenika said, "Although the Management could have ignored the allegations against Dr. Peter Ibhawaebgele, we chose to clarify that the query stemmed from his refusal to compromise with the Special Intervention Team (SIT). It's a matter of record that Dr. Ibhawagbele wasn't subjected to any formal disciplinary committee by the SIT or Management."
He questioned, "Why is this being brought up now? Doesn't it seem like a clear case of mischief?"
Aladenika clarified, "We want to put on record that the approved foreign trip for the Director of Audit is not exclusive to Ambrose Alli University, but rather a program for auditors from various higher educational institutions and other organizations across Nigeria."
He added, "One would have expected the authors of this report and their cohorts to conduct proper checks and verifications before leveling such baseless allegations."
"Regarding the TETFUND contract award, Aladenika clarified, "The Governing Council has not awarded any TETFUND contract. The report's reference to a contract award is a misrepresentation, as it merely pertained to documentation of potential TETFUND-assisted projects at the University. This exposes the writer's mischief and lack of understanding."
"The Management of AAU reassures the public of its commitment to transparency, accountability, and academic excellence. We urge well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the malicious publication and continue to support our efforts in repositioning the University for greatness, said Aladenika.
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