In a significant development at the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM), the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has sanctioned the interdiction of the institution’s Provost, Prof. Biodun Adewuya.
This decision, effective from 3rd September 2024, stems from allegations of insubordination, unauthorized disclosure of official information, and actions deemed prejudicial to the security of both the University and the State.
The accusations further extend to divided loyalty and conduct unbecoming of a public officer.
The basis for this decisive action is detailed in a memo, reference number LASU/ASE/PF/3394, dated 30th August 2024.
It asserts that Prof. Adewuya’s actions constitute serious misconduct, violating the University’s regulations as outlined in Chapter 3, Sections 3.6 and 3.8 (3.8.1) of the Conditions of Service for Senior Staff, established in September 2017.
Before reaching this conclusion, Prof. Adewuya had been issued two separate queries to address the allegations.
Despite his responses, the VC found them unsatisfactory and unacceptable. Consequently, the matter has been escalated to the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.
During Prof. Adewuya’s interdiction, which is set for an initial period of three months, he will be relieved of all official duties both as a member of staff at Lagos State University and as Provost of LASUCOM. This action is in strict compliance with Chapter 3, Section 3.9.7 (e) of the University’s Conditions of Service for senior staff.
In the interim, Prof. Olufemi Emmanuel Idowu has been appointed as the Acting Provost of LASUCOM, effective from Tuesday, 3rd September 2024. Prof. Idowu, who is currently the Deputy Provost from the Department of Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, will assume this role pending the outcome of the investigation by the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary (Academic) Committee concerning Prof. Adewuya.
This leadership transition marks a significant moment for LASUCOM as it navigates through this period of administrative scrutiny and change.
The university community awaits the findings of the disciplinary committee, which will determine the subsequent steps in this unfolding situation.