The All Progressives Congress is deeply concerned about the Plateau State University Bokkos’ potential closure by the National University Commission due to the State Government’s infractions of the commission’s criteria.
According to a statement signed by Shittu Bamaiyi, Acting Publicity Secretary, information received by the Party indicates that the NUC is about to withdraw the Institution’s certificate of recognition and accreditation due to the Plateau State government’s recalcitrant attitude in disrupting academic activities and meddling in University management.
The APC, as a significant stakeholder, sees Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s recent dictatorial action in replacing the Vice-Chancellor, as well as the University’s retrenchment of qualified lecturers, as major factors for the institution’s impending closure by the NUC.
The APC is deeply disturbed and concerned that, despite protests from the Institution’s academic and non-academic staff, as well as a warning from the NUC about the flagrant violation of the University’s laws in the appointment and removal of the Vice-Chancellor, the governor believes he has the authority to do and undo anything as long as he is the Institution’s Visitor.
The APC is not surprised by Governor Mutfwang’s action, as a similar decision was made for the institution by his mentor Jonah Jang, but the total closure of the University will have a catastrophic impact on the State, Parents, and Students.
The state government’s flimsy excuse that the terminations of some lecturers and support staff appointments were due to improper procedures is counterproductive because it could provide reasons for the cancellation of some courses previously accredited by the NUC.