WHO’S AFRAID OF JUSTICE? A REJOINDER TO AKIN AKINSOLUGA’S CRITIQUE OF THE FUOYE VICE-CHANCELLOR.

WHO’S AFRAID OF JUSTICE? A REJOINDER TO AKIN AKINSOLUGA’S CRITIQUE OF THE FUOYE VICE-CHANCELLOR.

Akin Akinsoluga’s recent commentary on the Vice-Chancellor of FUOYE reads more like a patchwork of speculation and unfounded assertions than a serious engagement with the facts. Rather than shedding light on the realities facing the institution, his remarks reveal more about his own biases and intentions. One must ask: what motivates such a flimsy and seemingly choreographed assault on a leader who is merely defending his integrity in the face of what appears to be a politically driven smear campaign? In the end, the central question remains: who, indeed, is afraid of justice?

Akinsoluga appears to insinuate that the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abayomi Fasina, has no right to seek legal redress in defence against baseless allegations. Such a proposition is not only patently absurd but also strikes at the very heart of the principles of fairness and due process—cornerstones of any credible academic or administrative engagement. If, following thorough investigations by both the Nigerian Police and the University’s Governing Council—institutions of considerable repute—the Vice-Chancellor has been duly exonerated, then on what grounds should he be denied the right to take legal steps to protect his name and integrity? If Akinsoluga and his cohorts are truly confident in their claims, they should have no fear of judicial scrutiny or further investigation; indeed, they ought to embrace it as an avenue for truth and transparency.

It is increasingly evident that Akin and his politically aligned associates are seeking to conflate personal grievances with broader institutional concerns. The suggestion that Professor Fasina’s actions are somehow a response to a supposed “succession plan” orchestrated by clandestine political actors is a feeble attempt to divert attention from the substantive matters at stake. Engr. Kayode Ojo’s apparent discontent with Professor Fasina—rooted in a sense of political displacement—should not serve as a pretext for launching baseless assaults on the Vice-Chancellor’s character.

Moreover, it is imperative to acknowledge the gravity of allegations of impropriety and misconduct, particularly when directed at an individual who has spent years cultivating a distinguished career in service to the academic sector. To imply that Professor Fasina ought to remain mute in the face of such accusations is not only unreasonable—it is an implicit endorsement of injustice.

Furthermore, the opaque political undercurrents surrounding these allegations—particularly those linked to aspirations for professional ascendancy and financial advantage—must not be overlooked. The associations between Kayode Ojo and certain financial transactions within the University, including the award of contracts under questionable circumstances, justifiably prompt concerns regarding the true motivations behind the sustained assault on the Vice-Chancellor’s administration. Allegations of misconduct ought not to be weaponised for political expediency; instead, they must be scrutinised through the appropriate legal and institutional mechanisms.

It is equally vital to acknowledge the widespread support Professor Fasina commands from both the student body and members of staff—academic and non-academic alike. His proactive and pragmatic leadership has ensured uninterrupted academic calendars, sparing students the perennial setbacks caused by industrial actions—an accomplishment that eloquently attests to his unwavering dedication to academic excellence.

In conclusion, we must remain resolute in our commitment to truth and transparency, safeguarding our academic institutions from the corrosive influence of personal vendettas and political interference. It is incumbent upon every conscientious member of the university community to uphold a governance ethos rooted in integrity, accountability, and the pursuit of excellence—values that the Vice-Chancellor has consistently embodied.

We must not permit the murmurings of political intrigue to erode the moral fabric of our institution. Rather, we must anchor our efforts in the pursuit of justice and truth, for only through such steadfast commitment can FUOYE realise its full potential and flourish as a beacon of higher education.

Segun Ibijola.

A Concerned Oye-Ekiti Indigene