…Protesters Demand VC, Pro-Chancellor’s Resignation
…VC Reacts, Says Protesters are Opposed to Positive Change
By Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
A protest was carried out today at Ahman Pategi University, with protesters demanding the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kazeem Gbolagade, and the Pro-Chancellor, Ambassador Nimota Akanbi. The protesters, who are mostly from the host community, allege mismanagement and lack of transparency in the university’s administration.
The protesters carried placards with various inscriptions, highlighting their grievances against the university’s leadership. They claim that the mismanagement has crippled businesses and made life unbearable for parents and students.
However, the Vice-Chancellor has reacted to the allegations, describing them as malicious and baseless. According to a statement released by the Vice-Chancellor’s executive secretary, Mr. Onikanhun, the protesters are opposed to the positive changes introduced by the Vice-Chancellor since his assumption of office in March 2024.
The statement highlights the Vice-Chancellor’s achievements, including improved financial management, increased student enrollment, and expanded academic programs. It also emphasizes the Vice-Chancellor’s commitment to democratic, transparent, and inclusive leadership.
Read his full statement here:
Rebuttal to Baseless Allegations Against the Vice-Chancellor, Ahman Pategi University
Our attention has been drawn to the recent malicious report emanating from online news medium, against the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kazeem Alagbe Gbolagade. This report is nothing more than a calculated attempt to malign his reputation and undermine the unprecedented progress recorded under his leadership, since his assumption of office on the 1st of March, 2024.
These baseless claim of planned protest against him and demand for his resignation by those who are opposed to his leadership style lack any factual credibility and are clearly orchestrated by faceless individuals who are resistant to positive change and institutional reforms at Ahman Pategi University (APU).
For the record, since assuming office on March 1, 2024, Professor Kazeem Alagbe Gbolagade, FNCS, FCILG, FPAN, has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to democratic, transparent, and inclusive leadership. His administration has embraced collaboration and open dialogue, ensuring that all decisions reflect the collective aspirations of the university community.
Under his stewardship, Ahman Pategi University has witnessed transformative achievements that continue to propel the institution toward academic and administrative excellence.
Upon his assumption of office, the Vice-Chancellor inherited a dire financial situation, with only *₦25,000* in the university’s management account, with months of unpaid salaries. Through visionary financial management and strategic reforms, he has successfully increased student enrollment, thereby improving the university’s revenue base. This financial turnaround has enabled the smooth running of the institution’s operations.
In addition, Professor Gbolagade has been instrumental in expanding the university’s academic offerings. Notable among his achievements is the approval of new medical programs, including Doctor of Physiotherapy, Medical Laboratory Science, and Physiology. These programs not only enhance the university’s profile but also position it as a hub for professional and innovative education.
His leadership facilitated the attainment of permanent licensing from the National Universities Commission (NUC)—a milestone that underscores his unwavering commitment to academic integrity and excellence.
Enhancement of students welfare is another key area where the Vice Chancellor has performed creditably well because students remain at the heart of his vision for the university.
He has also facilitated scholarship opportunities, including those sponsored by prominent stakeholders like Honourable L & K, providing financial support to deserving students.
Recognizing the need for a structured support system, the Vice Chancellor established the Dean of Students Affairs Office, which was non-existent prior to his administration. This office has become instrumental in addressing student concerns, thereby fostering a positive and conducive learning environment.
Professor Gbolagade’s administration has streamlined processes through the introduction of a credible online portal for students’ registration and administrative functions. This innovation has eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks and improved efficiency across the university.
Furthermore, the academic calendar has been effectively reorganized to ensure timely conduct of lectures and examinations, enhancing the overall academic experience for students and faculty alike.
Ahman Pategi University has enjoyed the credibility and supports of the Governing Council since it’s commencement of Academic and Administrative activities in 2021. The institution’s stability and progress under Professor Gbolagade are further reinforced by the credibility and leadership of the Governing Council, chaired by Ambassador Dr. Nimota Nihinlola Akanbi, a seasoned, smart technocrat and woman of excellence.
Dr. Akanbi is an accomplished administrator and the immediate past Chairman of the National Secondary School Education Commission. Prior to this, she served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to The Netherlands, where she represented the country with distinction. Her wealth of experience, integrity, and commitment to excellence have been pivotal in guiding the university’s governing policies and supporting the Vice-Chancellor’s transformative initiatives.
The Motive Behind the False Allegations
It is important to view these allegations in the proper context—they are simply corruption fighting back. Professor Gbolagade’s efforts to reform and reposition the university have disrupted entrenched systems of inefficiency and complacency. It is, therefore, unsurprising that those resistant to progress are resorting to spreading falsehoods to distract the administration and mislead the public.
Ahman Pategi University remains a thriving institution under the visionary leadership of Professor Kazeem Alagbe Gbolagade. With the unwavering support of the Governing Council led by Dr. Nimota Nihinlola Akanbi, the university continues to experience unprecedented progress, including financial stability, academic expansion, and improved students welfare.
The baseless allegations being circulated are the desperate actions of individuals seeking to derail the institution’s growth. However, these attempts will not succeed. The university community remains united, focused, and committed to its mission of achieving academic excellence and contributing to societal development.
B.A Onikanhun
Executive Secretary to the Vice Chancellor, Ahman Pategi University, Patigi-Nigeria