Unilorin management clarifies position on alumni rift
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The management of the University of Ilorin has addressed the ongoing leadership dispute within the institution’s Alumni Association, affirming the election of a new executive committee led by Prof. Abdulrazaq Olubusuyi Kilani on August 24, 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Kunle Akogun, clarified that the tenure of the former president, Dr. Wale Fasakin, ended in 2021 following a resolution of the association’s congress.
He explained that a caretaker committee subsequently managed the association’s affairs until the August 2024 congress, which elected the Kilani-led executive committee.
However, Dr. Fasakin has reportedly continued to present himself as the association’s president. Recently, he led a group on what was described as a ‘courtesy visit’ to Mrs. Kemi Nandap, Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service and an alumna of the university, claiming to represent the association’s National Executive Committee.
Mr. Akogun stated that while the university management generally refrains from interfering in the internal affairs of the Alumni Association, it cannot ignore actions that threaten the association’s unity.
He emphasized the importance of the alumni body in contributing positively to the university’s development and reiterated management’s commitment to fostering peace and harmony within the association.
He further called on Dr. Fasakin to stop claiming to be the national president, as a legitimate executive committee is already in place. Mr. Akogun also urged corporate organizations, government officials, stakeholders, and other parties to cease engaging with Dr. Fasakin in any official capacity, as he no longer represents the association.
“Management appreciates the relevance of the Alumni Association and its potential to make significant contributions to the university’s progress.
“We encourage all members to support the new leadership and work towards the association’s goals,” Mr. Akogun concluded.
