Controversy as UI Senate extends tenure of Acting VC

There was a controversy over the decision of the Senate of the University of Ibadan to extend the tenure of the Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Adebola Babatunde Ekanola.

Our correspondent gathered that some members of the Senate were against the extension of his tenure, as it is not only against the provision of the rules of the institution, but also violates the agreement of members of the Senate six months ago.

Daily Trust recalled that the issue of electing the new VC for the institution has been controversial as Ibadan indigenes are agitating for the slot while academia insists on competence.

A total of 151 members of Senate, at a special meeting of the Senate of the University, held at the Trenchard Hall of the institution on Monday, voted for the reappointment of Professor Adebola Ekanola.

The acting VC was first elected into the same position six months ago.

Both the Acting Vice Chancellor and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Kayode Adebowale, recused themselves from this section of the meeting of the Senate and according to the tradition of the institution, the Provost, College of Medicine, Professor Olayinka Omigbodun, presided.

It was gathered that only a member of the governing council and one other professor abstained from voting.

The Senate had earlier at the same meeting voted overwhelmingly in support of electronic voting with 163 members in support; none against while 12 members abstained.