By Jumoke Olaitan
The Federal Ministry of Education has directed the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Prof. Ikechukwu Dozie, to withdraw the appointment of 24 aides in his office.
The directive is contained in a letter dated June 25 and signed by the Acting Director of University Education in the ministry, Dr O.L Kareem, on behalf of the Ministrt.
The ministry describing the action as inconsistent with established regulations governing federal universities, noting that the appointments were made through a memorandum issued by the university on June 22.
The ministry said its review of the appointments showed that the university did not conform with existing guidelines, procedures and due process requirements applicable within the federal university system.
The letter instructed the vice-chancellor to immediately reverse the appointments and forward evidence of compliance to the ministry without delay.
The letter also invited Dozie to appear before ministry officials in Abuja on June 29 for discussions on the matter.
According to the ministry, the engagement will focus on issues relating to institutional governance, administrative accountability, due process and compliance with regulations guiding the administration of federal universities.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to transparency, prudent management and adherence to best practices in the nation’s tertiary education sector.
Copies of the letter were forwarded to the National Universities Commission (NUC) for information and necessary action. (NAN)(www nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi