By Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
The management of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, has refuted rumours of a crisis within the institution, asserting that the university remains peaceful.
In a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Isaac Oluyi, the authorities dismissed claims implicating staff members and a governing council member in alleged attempts to disrupt the university. Oluyi attributed the rumours to “agents of destabilisation” seeking to misrepresent the institution.
“Some agents of destabilisation have been feeding fat on fabrications about the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo. Over the past two weeks, the media space has been inundated with all sorts of unfounded news about the university. This is not who we are. The university is not in crisis but continues to excel in teaching, research, and community service with a focus on being the first and best in health professions education,” Oluyi said.
He affirmed that Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adesegun Fatusi and his management team are not connected to the allegations of unrest and dissociated the university from any news reports suggesting otherwise.
The statement also addressed allegations involving specific staff members, including Professors Loto and Odimayo, Mr Oladipupo, and Governing Council member Barrister Kukoyi, accused of planning to disrupt the institution. Oluyi emphasised that the group purportedly behind the allegations, the “Concerned Stakeholders Forum,” is not recognised by the university and holds no authority to speak on its behalf.
“When there is conflict among staff members, the university has internal mechanisms to resolve such issues. UNIMED belongs to all of Ondo State, not just a section of it. We condemn any attempt to create division or disaffection among the peace-loving people of the state using the university,” Oluyi added.
He urged individuals with grievances to address them respectfully, avoiding character assassination or hiding under anonymous groups.
“The University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, dissociates itself from any publication maligning the character of staff or Governing Council members. We remain committed to excellence and will not engage in disparaging individuals associated with the institution,” he concluded.