Ensure Fairness in Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan Leadership Transition – CSGGG Urges Minister

….Calls for Adherence to Civil Service Rules

…..Warns Against Disruption of College Activities

A foremost right group, identified as the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance CSGGG, has called on the Federal Government to ensure strict adherence to due processes and civil service rules in the appointment of an Acting Provost for the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan.

This appeal follows the imminent conclusion of the tenure of the current Provost, Dr. Mrs. Elizabeth Oluwakemi Augustus on December 31, 2024.

In a letter dated December 30, 2024, and signed by the  President, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, the group expressed concern over reports that the process might deviate from already established procedures.

The letter, addressed to the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, also called for the attention of the Honourable Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, the Head of Service of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria.

The group specifically highlighting Section 020806 of the Civil Service Rules, which stipulates that acting appointments must be based on seniority and qualifications, warned that any deviation from this principle could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the credibility of the appointment process and causing unrest within the institution.

It further opined that failure to adhere to principles of fairness, equity, and merit, unions affiliated with the College including the Academic Staff Union, Senior Staff Union, and Non-Academic Staff Union, have expressed readiness to embark on industrial action with immediate effect.

It read; “We are troubled by reports suggesting that a candidate other than the most senior officer is being considered for this appointment, such a move not only undermines the provisions of the Civil Service Rules but also risks disrupting the College’s daily operations.”

“Section 2, Rule 4 (1)(a) of the Public Service Rules calls for strict adherence to due process in public sector appointments, including transitions in leadership. We urge the Minister of Agriculture and other stakeholders to take decisive action to uphold transparency and equity.”

“We trust in your commitment to justice and transparency and urge you to address this pressing issue swiftly.” it added.

Underscoring the broader implications of the issue, the group noted that fair and transparent leadership transitions are essential to maintaining staff morale, institutional stability, and public trust in governance processes.

They however reiterated their readiness to engage further with relevant authorities to ensure a resolution that aligns with established rules and standards.