The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has approved the interdiction of the Provost of the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), Professor Biodun Adewuya.
The decision was made on the grounds of serious misconduct, including insubordination, unauthorized disclosure of official information, actions prejudicial to the security of the university and the state, divided loyalty, and conduct unbecoming of a public officer.
According to a memo issued by the university, Professor Adewuya had been issued two separate queries regarding the allegations, to which he responded. However, the Vice-Chancellor deemed these responses “unsatisfactory and unacceptable” and has now referred the case to the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.
The interdiction of Professor Adewuya is effective from September 3rd, 2024, and will last for an initial period of three months. During this time, he will be relieved of all official duties as a member of staff of LASU and as Provost of LASUCOM, by the university’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff.
In the interim, the Vice-Chancellor has appointed Professor Olufemi Emmanuel Idowu, the Deputy Provost of LASUCOM, as the Acting Provost, effective from September 3rd, 2024. Professor Idowu, from the Department of Surgery in the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, will serve in this capacity pending the outcome of the investigation by the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary (Academic) Committee.
The decision to remove the Provost has been viewed as a bold and necessary step by the university administration to maintain the integrity and discipline of the institution. The allegations of misconduct, if proven true, could have serious implications for the reputation and operations of both LASUCOM and LASU as a whole.
LASU’s Head of Information and Public Relations, Mrs Oluwayemisi Thomas-Onashile, stated that the university’s actions were in line with the Conditions of Service for Senior Staff, which outlines the procedures for addressing such issues of misconduct.
The case has generated significant interest and discussion within the academic community, with some expressing concerns about the potential impact on the College of Medicine’s operations and the well-being of its students. Others have praised the university’s decisive action, emphasizing the importance of upholding high standards of conduct and accountability among senior university officials.
As the investigation moves forward, all eyes will be on LASU to ensure a fair and transparent process that upholds the principles of justice and good governance. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the university and the broader higher education landscape in Nigeria.
