VC Advert Sparks Debate at LASU as Professor Raises Concerns Over Selection Criteria

VC Advert Sparks Debate at LASU as Professor Raises Concerns Over Selection Criteria

LAGOS – The advertisement for the position of Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU) has generated debate within the institution following concerns raised by a former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Professor Olatunji Abanikannda, over some of the eligibility requirements contained in the notice.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Abanikannda questioned certain provisions in the advertisement, arguing that some of the criteria could be open to varying interpretations and may inadvertently limit the pool of eligible candidates.

One of the issues highlighted by the professor is the use of the term “several” in describing aspects of the qualification requirements. According to him, words such as “few,” “several,” and “many” lack precise numerical definitions and may create ambiguity in a recruitment process for a position as important as that of a university vice-chancellor.

He noted that previous vice-chancellor advertisements in federal, state and private universities, including earlier recruitment exercises conducted by LASU, often specified clear numerical benchmarks rather than relying on broad descriptive terms.

Abanikannda also expressed reservations about the requirement that candidates must have delivered their inaugural lectures. He described the provision as potentially controversial, questioning whether the delivery of an inaugural lecture should be considered a mandatory benchmark for eligibility.

According to him, the scheduling and organization of inaugural lectures within universities may be influenced by administrative considerations, a situation he said could disadvantage otherwise qualified academics who have not yet had the opportunity to present one.

While acknowledging that many of the criteria outlined in the advertisement are consistent with established standards for university leadership, the professor argued that some of the requirements appear to focus on anticipated future contributions rather than measurable achievements already attained by applicants.

The statement further drew attention to the requirement that candidates must be in excellent physical and mental health and possess verifiable certificates confirming their fitness. Abanikannda questioned the modalities for assessing and verifying such conditions, including the institutions and procedures that would be involved.

Beyond the eligibility criteria, the professor expressed concern about the broader implications of the advertisement for the university’s leadership transition. He alleged that certain provisions could pave the way for disputes during the selection process and potentially result in the appointment of an acting vice-chancellor.

He also claimed that efforts were being made to favour a particular candidate for the position, although no official response has been issued regarding the allegation.

Drawing comparisons with LASU’s recent advertisements for the positions of Registrar and Bursar, Abanikannda observed that those notices contained clearly defined requirements, including specified years of experience in deputy roles, rather than the use of broad or subjective terms.

The professor called on the university’s governing authorities and stakeholders to review the advertisement and ensure that the selection process remains transparent, fair and consistent with established best practices.

He urged all parties involved in the appointment process to safeguard the integrity of the institution and protect its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading state-owned universities.

As of the time of filing this report, LASU management had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by the professor.