From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The University of Ilorin has addressed the ongoing leadership controversy within its Alumni Association, affirming the election of a new Executive Committee led by Prof. Abdulrazaq Kilani, on August 24, 2024.
In a statement delivered to journalists in Ilorin, the institution’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, condemned the actions of Dr. Wale Fasakin, who continues to present himself as the Association’s President despite the expiration of his tenure.
“Dr. Fasakin’s tenure came to an end in 2021 through a resolution of the Association’s Congress,” Mr. Akogun stated. “A Caretaker Committee was then put in place, and it ran the Association until the August 2024 Congress, which elected the Kilani-led executive.”
The University expressed concerns over a recent incident where Dr. Fasakin reportedly led a delegation on a “courtesy visit” to Mrs. Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, under the guise of representing the National Executive Committee of the Alumni Association.
“While the University Management does not wish to interfere in the internal affairs of the Alumni Association, we cannot sit idly by as needless wrangling threatens the unity and harmony of the Association,” Mr. Akogun emphasised.
The Management acknowledged the critical role of the Alumni Association in advancing the institution’s development and pledged to promote peace within the group.
Mr. Akogun urged Dr. Fasakin to desist from further misrepresentation, calling on government officials, corporate organisations, and stakeholders to avoid engaging with him. “Dr. Fasakin is no longer an official of the Association and is not authorized to represent it,” he added.
The University reiterated its commitment to fostering collaboration with the legitimate leadership of the Alumni Association to ensure its continued contributions to the institution’s progress.
