FUOYE Community Rescues Vice-Chancellor from Police Arrest Attempt

On Wednesday, staff and students of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) prevented police from arresting their Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joshua Ogunwole, at his home in Ado-Ekiti. The incident occurred early in the morning when Ogunwole noticed police officers surrounding his residence.

Ogunwole had just gone to bed around 3 am and was woken by his children who spotted the police. He expressed concern about whether the officers were legitimate and wanted to understand why they were there before stepping outside. The police later claimed they had a warrant for his arrest, but Ogunwole insisted on knowing the reason for their presence first.

The Vice-Chancellor suggested that the situation stemmed from a petition linked to previous university officials, including the former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Fasina. He mentioned a leaked audio recording that led to an investigation and a court case. Ogunwole has also reported threats to his safety to the Inspector-General of Police.

Ogunwole criticized the police for their approach, stating that he would have cooperated if they had invited him instead of surrounding his house. He expressed his commitment to his role and the university’s future, saying, “There is no turning back. Our mission to create a new face for FUOYE.”

Dr. Ojo Fagbuagun, the local chair of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), joined the Vice-Chancellor in denouncing the police action. He claimed that some individuals from the previous administration were trying to undermine Ogunwole’s reforms. Fagbuagun accused these individuals of misconduct but did not provide specific evidence.

Other university groups, including the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) and the Non-Academic Staff Union, also showed support for Ogunwole. They expressed their desire for peace and stability at the university, emphasizing the importance of good governance.