JUST IN; University Vice Chancellor under probe for s3xual assault, panel set up
JUST IN; University Vice Chancellor under probe for s3xual assault, panel set up
A nine-member investigation panel has been formed by the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) Governing Council in response to grave claims of sexual harassment against Prof. Abayomi Fasina, the university’s vice chancellor.
Following an emergency meeting on Friday, January 24, 2025, the decision was reached, according to a statement issued by Mufutau Ibrahim, the University Registrar and Council Secretary.
This move comes after online platforms, including Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) and Sahara Reporters, published audio recordings alleging that Prof. Fasina made sexual advances toward Engr. Mrs. Folashade Adebayo, a deputy director at the University’s Works Department.
The Governing Council expressed concerns that negative media attention surrounding the University was overshadowing its significant achievements.
In light of this, the Council decided to form the panel to thoroughly investigate the allegations and resolve the matter within three weeks.
The committee’s key tasks include tracing the origin of the viral audio recordings, exploring the alleged immoral actions of the Vice Chancellor, and examining claims of the manipulation of senior University positions, such as the roles of the Bursar and Registrar.
The panel will also look into the motives behind the recordings and how they gained traction on social media.
In addition, the investigation will focus on the specific allegations made by Engr. Adebayo, including her claims of sexual harassment, and review past efforts by the police and the former Council chairman to address these accusations.
The panel is also charged with probing any other relevant matters linked to the allegations. The Council has set a timeline to review the findings at its next meeting, scheduled for the third week of February 2025.
Meanwhile, the Council has called on the University community and the public to remain patient and composed, assuring that the investigation will be handled fairly and impartially, with a firm commitment to upholding justice without bias.
