By Abigael Dada
The Education Students’ Representative Assembly (ESRA) has suspended the President of the Faculty of Education, Abubakar Abubakar Sadiq, following allegations of financial misconduct and violations of the Education Students’ Association of Nigeria (ESAN) constitution.
According to the ESRA senate president, Muhammad, the decision to suspend Sadiq followed findings from an investigation into how he handles $3000 donation received from the minister of Housing and Development. The funds were supposed to be for the renovation of the faculty’s dilapidated toilets, which was a key promise Sadiq made during his campaign.
The Senate President revealed that Sadiq allegedly failed to follow proper consultation procedures as stipulated by the ESAN constitution. He further claimed that the investigation surrounding the whole event uncovered that Sadiq exchanged the dollars at a lower exchange rate, raising concerns about potential misappropriation of funds intended for student facility improvements.
A specially formed investigative committee, comprising senators from various departments at the faculty, conducted a thorough examination of the matter. The committee found that Sadiq did not consult the Education Students' Representative Assembly (ESRA) before initiating the renovation project. This breach of protocol prompted the Senate to suspend him pending the conclusion of a formal investigation.
In the aftermath of the suspension, the Senate faced internal challenges in nominating an acting president, with concerns raised about potential personal interests influencing the selection process. To restore calm and control the situation, the Senate issued an apology letter to restore peace and unity within the faculty, especially as students were approaching their examination period.
Speaking with the ABU Campus Press, The Senate President emphasized that the investigation aims to protect students’ interests and maintain faculty integrity. He promised that a comprehensive report of the findings would be released by the first week of the second semester, and assured that any misappropriated funds are recovered.
“Leadership must be about service, not personal gain.,” Senator Muhammad concluded. “We must place the needs of students above all else.” The case remains under investigation and more reports will be published as the story develops.
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