The management of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has refuted claims circulating online that its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, was suspended by the university’s Governing Council.
The university described the report, particularly one published by Sahara Reporters, as false, misleading, and a calculated attempt to tarnish the reputation of Prof. Fasina. This clarification was contained in a press statement issued on Monday by Dr. Wole Balogun, Special Adviser on Media Matters to the Vice-Chancellor.
According to the statement, Prof. Fasina was neither suspended nor removed from office. Instead, he voluntarily requested to proceed on his accumulated annual and research leave, a request which was duly granted by the Governing Council.
“The attention of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti has been drawn to fake news being circulated on some social media platforms, particularly by Sahara Reporters, that the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, was suspended today, April 14, 2025, by the Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba-led Governing Council. We categorically wish to state that such is fake news and should be dismissed by all well-meaning Nigerians and the international community,” the statement read.
The University warned that Sahara Reporters may face legal action for what it termed “unjust media practice” against the person of the Vice-Chancellor.
Further clarification was provided in an official statement signed by the University Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr. Mufutau Ibrahim. According to the statement, the Governing Council held its 7th Emergency Meeting online on Monday, April 14, 2025, where it considered and approved Prof. Fasina’s request for leave.
“The Council approved six months—equivalent to 126 working days—out of his total 228-day leave entitlement, with effect from Monday, April 14, 2025,” the Registrar stated.
In Prof. Fasina’s absence, the Governing Council appointed the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Olubunmi S. Shittu, as Acting Vice-Chancellor for the six-month period.
Prof. Fasina, whose tenure has been marked by what the university described as “unprecedented achievements,” is expected to use the leave period for rest and research purposes.
