A governance crisis has erupted at the University of Abuja, with Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Aisha Maikudi publicly accusing the institution’s Pro-Chancellor, Air Vice Marshal Saddiq Isma’ila Kaita, of undermining due process and destabilizing university administration. Maikudi’s allegations, outlined in a formal letter to the Minister of Education, reveal deep divisions over recent appointments and council management, stirring widespread concerns over the university’s future stability.
In a letter dated November 6, 2024, Maikudi, the university’s first female professor of law, detailed her grievances regarding procedural breaches under Kaita’s leadership. Central to the dispute is the appointment of a new substantive bursar. Maikudi claims the appointment process was marred by “undue interference,” as Kaita allegedly appointed an external consultant with extensive decision-making power, bypassing established protocols and the mandatory endorsement of university representatives. “The process was compromised, and Senate representatives refused to endorse it—a clear signal that due process was ignored,” Maikudi stated, underscoring the absence of the Federal Ministry of Education representative in the selection panel.
Another sticking point is the appointment of an Acting Registrar, where Maikudi’s nomination was reportedly rejected on “unsubstantiated legal grounds.” She argued that these interferences not only undermine her statutory duties as Acting VC but create instability across university administration. A recent extraordinary council meeting on November 9th added to the tension, which Maikudi described as fostering “a disconcerting atmosphere” that impacts the operational efficiency of the institution.
Maikudi also raised concerns over the proliferation of extraordinary council meetings, which she claims drain resources without addressing pressing issues like staff promotions and disciplinary actions. According to her, these frequent, short-notice gatherings strain the university’s limited finances and bear similarities to governance failures that previously led to a council indictment.
“The issues illustrate a troubling trend with severe repercussions for the governance and credibility of the University of Abuja,” Maikudi stated, urging swift intervention to restore responsible governance and uphold institutional standards. Her letter, which was also sent to Pro-Chancellor Kaita, is seen as a bold call for accountability amid a mounting leadership crisis.
