FUHSO Under Fire: Group Challenges Pioneer VC’s Suspension

The Concerned Idoma Unity Forum  has voiced its objections over the suspension of Prof. Innocent Ujah, the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), and the subsequent appointment of Prof. Ediga Agbo as the acting Vice Chancellor. According to the group, the university’s Governing Council did not adhere to the proper guidelines stipulated in the University Act for the removal of a substantive Vice Chancellor.

In a press statement by the university’s Public Relations office, the suspension of Prof. Ujah was attributed to allegations of gross misconduct and disregard for the Council’s authority. The emergency meeting, led by Pro-Chancellor Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, resulted in the appointment of Prof. Ediga Agbo as acting VC on October 17, 2024.

However, the **Concerned Idoma Unity Forum**, led by Mr. Agada Johnson, argued that the suspension of Prof. Ujah was unjust and bypassed due process. The group pointed out that under the 2003 University Act, a Vice Chancellor can only be removed by the Visitor (the President), following consultations with the University’s Council and Senate through the Minister of Education. Furthermore, they noted that a joint committee of the Council and Senate, as required, was not constituted.

While acknowledging that Prof. Agbo is qualified for the role of acting VC, the forum emphasized that the improper procedure undermined fairness and accountability. They questioned why the suspended VC was not given the opportunity to defend himself, particularly as he was away on official duties in South Korea at the time. The group stressed that this breach of protocol could fuel disillusionment among stakeholders and praised the pioneer VC for his dedication to developing the institution in Idoma land.