Governor Kefas Accused of Plotting to Install Brother as VC of Federal University

A fresh controversy has erupted at the Federal University, Wukari in Taraba State following claims that Governor Agbu Kefas is working behind the scenes to ensure his brother becomes the next Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

The allegation has triggered concern among education stakeholders and civil society groups, who say the process is being politicised and may undermine the autonomy of the university system.

A group known as Concerned Persons with Education Interest has written a formal petition to the Federal Ministry of Education over the matter.

The group accused the governor of attempting to influence the ongoing selection process in favour of his brother, Dr. Benjamin Kefas.

According to the group, Dr. Kefas does not meet the academic qualifications required to hold the position of Vice-Chancellor in a federal university.

The petition stated that although Dr. Kefas currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Neuro-oncology at the University of Virginia in the United States, he has not attained the rank of full professor, which is a major requirement for the office.

“Our concern is not directed at any individual on personal grounds, but rather at ensuring that the appointment process remains transparent, competitive, merit-based, and compliant with the statutory requirements guiding appointment of Vice Chancellors in federal universities.

“The Vice-Chancellor position requires the attainment of the rank of professor with at least 10 years of experience, proven integrity, and high administrative ability, among other qualifications clearly specified in university regulations and guidelines issued by the Federal Government,” the group said.

The petition was signed by the National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Bulus Zakari, who raised alarm over what he described as growing political interference in the selection exercise.

“Recent events surrounding the ongoing selection process have raised serious concerns among stakeholders as there are growing fears that external political influence, particularly from the State Governor, Agbu Kefas, may be affecting the integrity of the process, as allegations are riff that efforts are being made to influence the selection in favour of his brother, Dr. Benjamin Ate Kefas,” Zakari stated.

The group also questioned the credibility of the screening process carried out by the university’s governing council.

It alleged that out of about 40 applicants who applied for the position, only four candidates were eventually shortlisted.

According to the petition, three of the shortlisted candidates are from Taraba State, while one is from Adamawa State, a development the group described as suspicious and unfair.

The organisation warned that the situation could lead to unrest within the university community if urgent steps are not taken.

It called on the Federal Government to intervene immediately to protect the integrity of the institution and prevent what it described as a looming industrial crisis.

“We therefore respectfully urge the Federal Ministry of Education, as supervisory authority over federal universities, to intervene promptly and ensure that the ongoing appointment process adheres strictly to University, Miscellaneous Provisions, Act 1993 and its amendments, also known as the Universities Autonomy Act,” the petition read.

The group further demanded an independent review of the entire selection process.

“Specifically, we request the Ministry to: Conduct an independent review of the selection and screening process to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with statutory requirements.

“Verify that all shortlisted candidates meet the academic and administrative qualifications prescribed for the office of Vice-Chancellor.

“Ensure that no external political influence compromises the autonomy of the university governing council or the integrity of the appointment process.

“Reassure staff, students, and stakeholders through transparent communication that merit and due process will determine the final selection.

“Take necessary corrective measures should any procedural irregularities or undue influences be established,” the petition added.

As of the time of filing this report, neither Governor Agbu Kefas nor the management of the Federal University, Wukari has issued an official response to the allegations.

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