Etsako Group Rejects Appointment of Edo University VC by Okpebholo, Alleges Ethnic Bias

A socio-cultural organization in Edo State, Etsako Consciousness, has criticized the recent appointment of Victor Olawale as Vice-Chancellor of Edo State University, Iyamho, describing the process as lacking transparency, merit, and fairness.

The group, in a statement signed by its chairman, Imonikhe Paul, accused the university’s governing council of ethnic bias and nepotism in selecting Olawale. His appointment was announced last week by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

According to the group, Prof. Ganiyu Oboh—an indigene of Etsako and a highly qualified academic—had reportedly emerged as the top candidate during the screening process. However, he was overlooked in favor of Olawale, a decision the group believes was influenced by the composition of the governing council, which they allege is dominated by individuals of Yoruba descent.

“Edo State University is a state-owned institution, and it is expected that qualified indigenes would be given priority in leadership positions, especially when they clearly outperform others,” the statement read.

The group highlighted Prof. Oboh’s academic credentials, noting his role as a professor of applied biochemistry at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), head of the Functional Food and Nutraceutical Laboratory Unit, and recipient of numerous awards, including recognition as the best biochemist researcher in both Nigeria and Africa. He has also lectured at Ambrose Alli University and Auchi Polytechnic.

Etsako Consciousness called on Governor Okpebholo to review the selection process and ensure that merit, not ethnicity or favoritism, guides appointments in state institutions.

“While the governor, as the visitor to the university, has the authority to choose from among shortlisted candidates, this power should not be exercised at the expense of merit. Doing so would be a disservice to the people of Etsako and the integrity of the institution,” the group stated.

They warned that consistently sidelining qualified indigenes could discourage local participation and diminish trust in the system.