NANS Urges FG to Intervene in FCET Akoka Provost Crisis

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the federal government to intervene in the crisis surrounding the re-appointment and suspension of Dr. Wahab Ademola Azeez as the Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka

Recall that the Governing Council of the institution had on July 31, 2024 directed Dr. Azeez to ‘step aside’ with immediate effect following a lingering crisis from the allegation undue tenure elongation levelled against him a  by section of the staff.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Honorable Minister of Education

“We call on Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Honorable Minister of Education to critically review the matter, uphold the principles of justice, and allow due process to prevail,” NANS said in a statement signed Monday by its National Senate President, Akinteye Afeez.

While stating that the issues have stemmed from internal gang up of some disgruntled staff members who parade themselves as ‘Concerned Staff’, NANS hinted that the issues are purely politically motivated.

It said the crisis has dragged the Students’ Union into the fray, escalating tensions and disrupting the peaceful atmosphere of the institution.

The statement read: “After thorough investigations and consultations, it has become evident that many of the accusations against the Provost lack merit and were orchestrated to serve ulterior motives.

“Such politically motivated allegations should not form the basis for denying a qualified individual the opportunity to continue serving in his capacity as the Provost of the first College of Education Technical in Nigeria.”

The students’ apex body described the current political atmosphere of FCET Akoka as intense, adding that students have become the victims as their interests with respect to academics and welfare have been hampered by the selfish activities of the ‘Concerned Staff’.

“This is in buttress of the saying that; when two elephants fight the grasses suffer. The current situation of lawlessness and self-help doesn’t foster learning.”

NANS argued that the re-appointment of Azeez for the second term since 26th May, 2023 was legal, based on merit and performance.

“The Provost, Dr. Wahab Ademola Azeez, has contributed significantly to the development of FCET Akoka including the construction of the first-ever two storey Students Union building,” the statement said.

The Embattled Provost, Dr. Wahab Ademola Azeez

It warned that any influence of politically inclined ulterior motive that will affect the steady progress the Provost has set for the College should be stopped immediately.

“NANS believes in fostering unity, accountability, transparency, hard work and exemplary vision within our academic institutions.

“We urge all the stakeholders to prioritize the collective growth of FCET Akoka over personal interests. The education of Nigerian students should remain the central focus of all decisions,” the statement further read.

The student’ body appealed to the aggrieved staff “to embrace rule of law, due process, dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts to avoid further disruption of academic activities in our peaceful College.

“NANS remains committed to protecting the rights of Nigerian students and ensuring that justice is upheld in all matters affecting their welfare,” it said.