A socio-cultural group in Edo State, Etsako Consciousness (EC), has condemned the appointment of Prof. Victor Adetimirin Olawale as Vice Chancellor of Edo State University, Iyamho, alleging that the selection process sidelined merit and favoured nepotism.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Mr. Imonikhe Paul, the group claimed that Prof. Ganiyu Oboh, a native of South Ibie in Etsako West LGA, emerged top in the university’s screening exercise but was bypassed in favour of Prof. Olawale. They accused the institution’s Governing Council, chaired by Prof. Olusegun O. Akinyinka from the South West, of bias, noting that the council is dominated by members from the same ethnic background as the new appointee.

The group called on Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to probe the selection process, arguing that the decision disregarded merit and undermined the university’s integrity.

They highlighted Prof. Oboh’s credentials, including his role as a Professor of Applied Biochemistry at FUTA, Head of the Functional Food and Nutraceutical Laboratory Unit, recipient of Nigeria’s Best Researcher award, and recognition as Africa’s best biochemist. According to EC, Oboh’s research breakthroughs have contributed to Edo State University, Ambrose Alli University, and Auchi Polytechnic.

The group maintained that the vice chancellorship of a state-owned university should prioritise qualified indigenes, particularly from the host community, warning that overlooking locals would erode their sense of belonging.

“The governor’s authority to choose among shortlisted candidates should not compromise merit. This appointment is an insult to the Etsako and Edo people. The act of neither recognising nor appreciating indigenes in such contests dampens morale,” the statement read.

EC urged the state government to review the appointment in the interest of fairness and transparency.