AAU Governing Council Reaffirms Validity of Vice-Chancellor Selection Process

The Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has reaffirmed that the process of appointing a substantive Vice-Chancellor remains valid, dismissing speculations that the Edo State Government directed a restart of the exercise.

In a statement issued by the Principal Assistant Registrar, Media and Protocol, Otunba Michael Aladenika, the Council clarified that the petitions being reviewed arose after the completion of the selection exercise and do not nullify the process already concluded.

The Council, chaired by Chief Dan Osi Orbih, emphasized that the procedure was conducted strictly in line with the university’s extant laws. The vacancy was advertised in three national newspapers, applications were received nationwide, and shortlisted candidates were duly interviewed.

“At the end of the rigorous exercise, three names were shortlisted strictly on merit, qualifications, and performance, and forwarded to the Governor for consideration,” the statement explained.

Addressing the controversy, the Council referred to a letter dated July 30, 2025, from the Secretary to the State Government, which only requested a review of the validity of petitions. “The letter acknowledged receipt of the three names, commended the process, and merely urged the Council to assess the petitions. Contrary to social media speculations, there was no order for a fresh selection,” the statement emphasized.

The Council also highlighted reforms under Orbih’s leadership, including:

• Approval of the ₦70,000 minimum wage for staff.
• Resolution of longstanding challenges faced by medical and nursing students.
• Preparations for long-overdue convocation ceremonies.

Concluding, the statement stressed that the Vice-Chancellor selection remains firmly on track. “What is clear is that the process has not been cancelled. Instead, the government and the Council are working hand in hand to ensure that fairness, legality, and merit remain the guiding principles.”

Would you like me to make the headline sharper and more media-friendly, so it captures both the denial and the merit-based shortlist in fewer words?