….describes Fasakin-led executive as “merchants of trouble”
The Concerned Former BetterByFar Students (CFBS) group has urged the University of Ilorin’s administration and Governing Council to exercise caution when dealing with certain individuals in the Alumni association, whom they have termed “merchants of trouble”.
In a communique issued in Ilorin, the group described Dr. Stephen Fasakin, the former President of the Unilorin Alumni Association, as a notorious troublemaker who has failed to make any meaningful contributions to the association’s growth and development.
“Through this communique, we feel compelled to inform the University Administration and, more importantly, the newly inaugurated Abiodun Aluko-led Governing Council that Dr. Fasakin has a history of holding positions without the capacity to deliver, as evident in the lack of progress during his tenure. He is a troublemaker who relies solely on the Alumni secretariat for his activities, without any other known office or responsibilities.”
The group expressed outrage and disbelief at the counter advertorial published by the Fasakin-led executive committee, which shamefully urged responsible graduates to boycott the inclusive election of the association. The group deemed this move not only shocking but utterly absurd. They have since advised the Fasakin-led Executive Committee to relinquish their positions graciously, paving the way for new and innovative leadership to emerge.
Read full communique below:
UNILORIN ALUMNI FOR ALL, NOT MARCHANTS OF TROUBLE
Fellow distinguished members of the Unilorin Alumni, we are honoured to be part of this esteemed institution and prestigious alumni association. We firmly believe that it’s time for a change in leadership, as our association has been dominated by the same individuals for far too long. We have every confidence that we have an abundance of talented and visionary individuals among our ranks, from 1975 to the present day, who can lead our association with innovative thinking and strategic foresight.
Prior to the recent advertorial regarding our association’s election, we have become sceptical about the organization and didn’t expect much from it. However, the open and inclusive approach announced in the advertorial was a commendable and welcome surprise. Unfortunately, this progress was overshadowed by a counter advert from the former Fasakin-led executive committee, which shockingly urged responsible graduates to boycott the inclusive election. This move is not only absurd but also raises concerns that warrant caution.
Without diminishing the academic achievements of Dr. Fasakin and his team, we urge them to consider fresh perspectives and new ideas. It’s concerning that the same individuals have been at the helm of our association for over two decades, and we worry that our leaders should have thriving careers and endeavors outside of the association, enabling them to bring value and expertise to our community.
It’s time to put an end to this stagnation and usher in a new era of progress. We, the members from all chapters across the federation, are ready to take our association to new heights and showcase its true potential. Let us work together to create a brighter future for our alma mater.
To recap, the Fasakin-led Executive Committee’s leadership was dissolved during the Congress on March 27, 2021, and an interim committee was subsequently established. By extension, their tenure not only ended but has also expired. Dr. Fasakin and his team should provide evidence of any value-adding initiatives or activities undertaken by the alumni association from 2021 to date to justify their claim to continue in office.
Through this communique, we feel compelled to inform the University Administration and, more importantly, the newly inaugurated Abiodun Aluko-led Governing Council that Dr. Fasakin has a history of holding positions without the capacity to deliver, as evident in the lack of progress during his tenure. He is a troublemaker who relies solely on the Alumni secretariat for his activities, without any other known office or responsibilities.
Without taking sides, we firmly believe in the importance of associations living up to their purpose and fostering meaningful partnerships that yield benefits. If members have lost confidence in your leadership, we urge you to step down graciously and allow fresh talent to emerge. Let us welcome dedicated and accomplished graduates of the University who can elevate the institution’s reputation and bring positive change, rather than perpetuating crisis. The time for rational decision-making is now.
Signed:
Concerned Former BetterByFar Students (CFBS).