Stakeholders Reject Allegations Against CUSTECH Vice Chancellor
A group of stakeholders labels accusations against CUSTECH Vice Chancellor Engr. Prof. Abdulrahaman Salawu as unfounded and harmful.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a strong response to recent petitions lodged against the Vice Chancellor of the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Engr. Prof. Abdulrahaman Salawu, a non-governmental organization called the Committee of Friends has condemned the allegations as not only baseless but also inciting.
The accusations against Prof. Salawu, which include claims of corrupt practices, sexual harassment, and anti-party activities, were submitted to both the Kogi State government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The Committee of Friends has described these petitions as the product of disgruntled individuals seeking to tarnish the Vice Chancellor’s well-established reputation.
In a statement issued on September 29, 2024, the group, represented by Chairman Alhaji Isah Suleiman and Secretary Musa Ohiani, asserted that an independent investigation revealed that some staff members, who had faced disciplinary actions for unethical behaviors, were behind these allegations. The group highlighted that these individuals had previously been reprimanded for issues such as insubordination, extortion from students, and harassment.
The Committee of Friends urged the university authorities to identify and dismiss these staff members, arguing that they pose a significant threat to the integrity and progress of CUSTECH. They emphasized the need for the Kogi State government to take swift action against those spreading falsehoods that could undermine the university's academic advancements.
“Our monitoring of the Vice-Chancellor’s activities shows that he is focused on elevating CUSTECH as a beacon of academic excellence,” the statement continued. “We can vouch for his integrity, which is essential for maintaining high ethical standards within the institution.”
Prof. Salawu, who assumed office as Vice-Chancellor in December 2023, has been instrumental in the expansion of academic programs and the establishment of new faculties. His leadership has led to significant developmental projects, including groundbreaking ceremonies for a Renewable Energy College and a Livestock Service Centre.
The organization concluded by calling for an end to the unfounded allegations and urged the community to support Prof. Salawu’s ongoing efforts to enhance the university's reputation and academic standards.
