Outrage Mounts Over Alleged Political Interference in UNIBEN VC Appointment

The appointment of Prof. Edoba Bright Omoregie as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has stirred controversy, with allegations of political interference by Nigerian Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Omoregie, a lawyer and close associate of Akpabio, was reportedly ranked 21st out of 25 candidates during the selection process, despite limited administrative experience. This appointment has been criticized for bypassing more qualified candidates, including Prof.

Abiodun Falodun, Prof. Ikponwonsa Omoruyi, and other highly ranked academics.

The move has raised concerns about the erosion of meritocracy and academic standards at UNIBEN, with some within the university community describing the appointment as a blow to the institution's reputation. Calls for a review of the appointment process to safeguard academic integrity and prevent political interference have intensified.