Leadership tussle rocks Federal Uni Wukari as Taraba youths write Tinubu

The Coalition of Taraba Youths has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene in the ongoing leadership crisis at the Federal University Wukari , FUW, in Taraba State.

In an open letter dated Saturday, the group warned that the unresolved dispute over the appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor could destabilize both the university and the state if not promptly addressed.

While commending the Federal Government for establishing the university, the coalition noted that FUW has significantly eased the financial and social burden on families in Taraba State. According to the group, many parents previously had to send their children to distant states such as Borno, Plateau, Kaduna, Lagos, and Enugu to access tertiary education.

The youths emphasized that the presence of the university has made higher education more accessible, especially for low-income families, while also enabling parents to closely monitor the welfare of their children.

Describing FUW as “a clear example of good governance and people-oriented policy,” the coalition expressed concern over recent actions by the institution’s Pro-Chancellor. 

The group alleged that the suspension of the Vice-Chancellor selection process, as well as decisions surrounding the appointment of a University Librarian, have created tension and uncertainty within the university and the host community.

The letter, signed by the group’s leader, Adamu Musa, claimed that the Pro-Chancellor halted the Vice-Chancellor selection process, citing an alleged directive from the Minister of Education to suspend the exercise and appoint an acting Vice-Chancellor. However, the coalition noted that such a directive has not been officially made public.

“These developments have generated anxiety among the peace-loving people of Taraba State and raised concerns about potential unrest,” the group stated

Questioning the rationale behind the suspension of the selection of a new Vice Chancellor,   they warned that the situation could lead to avoidable tension if left unresolved.

The coalition further highlighted Taraba State’s record of peaceful coexistence and its support for non-indigenous university officials, including the recent appointment of a Chief Medical Director at the Federal University Wukari Teaching Hospital.

The group  urged President Tinubu to intervene and ensure a transparent continuation of the Vice-Chancellor selection process, stressing that such action is necessary to maintain peace and stability within the university and the state.