Etsako Group Rejects Olawale’s Appointment as Edo University VC, Alleges Ethnic Bias and Nepotism

Etsako Consciousness, a socio-cultural group in Edo State, has strongly criticized the appointment of Victor Olawale as the Vice-Chancellor of Edo State University, Iyamho, describing the selection process as unfair and lacking in merit.

Governor Monday Okpebholo recently announced Olawale’s appointment, but the group, in a statement signed by its chairman, Imonikhe Paul, alleged that the decision was influenced by nepotism and ethnic favoritism. They claim the university’s governing council, led by Prof. Olusegun Akinyinka, overlooked merit and favored Olawale despite Prof. Ganiyu Oboh—an Etsako indigene—emerging as the top candidate during the screening.

The group further alleged that the council is predominantly composed of individuals of Yoruba origin, suggesting this ethnic composition may have influenced the outcome.

Etsako Consciousness called on Governor Okpebholo to investigate the selection process, stating that it undermined transparency and the institution’s credibility. They emphasized Prof. Oboh’s qualifications, highlighting his position as a professor of applied biochemistry at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), his leadership of the Functional Food and Nutraceutical Laboratory Unit, and recognition as the best biochemist researcher in Nigeria and Africa. Oboh has also served as a lecturer at Ambrose Alli University and Auchi Polytechnic.

The group argued that leadership positions in state-owned institutions should prioritize qualified indigenes and warned that repeated exclusion of local candidates could demoralize the community.

“Even though the governor, as the visitor to the university, has the authority to select from among three shortlisted candidates, merit should never be disregarded. Doing so would be a grave insult to the Etsako people at home and abroad,” the statement said. “The continued failure to recognize or appreciate indigenes in such contests will only dampen their morale.”