Security operatives on Monday attacked a Channels Television crew covering a protest by professors of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) over the contentious selection process for the institution’s next vice-chancellor.
The attack, which occurred on the university’s premises, saw the security agents damaging the journalists’ vehicle, manhandling crew members, and detaining them for over an hour.
Video footage of the incident showed armed operatives forcefully removing members of the Channels team from their vehicle and interrogating them about their presence on campus.
The protest stems from a deepening crisis surrounding the appointment of a new vice-chancellor following the exit of Prof. Abdul Rasheed Na’Allah on July 1. Professors at the university accuse the governing council of favoring Prof. Aisha Maikudi, a candidate they allege does not meet the advertised criteria for the role.
Maikudi, a professor of international law, reportedly became a professor in 2022 before being appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) and later acting Vice-Chancellor under what critics describe as questionable circumstances.
Detractors allege her rise was influenced by her father, a prominent figure in Katsina State, who they claim played a role in securing Prof. Na’Allah’s appointment as UniAbuja’s VC five years ago.
Amid the allegations, Pro-Chancellor Sadiq Ismaila Kaita has defended the selection process, maintaining that due process is being followed.
The university administration has yet to comment on the attack on journalists or the protests. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked outrage among media rights groups, who have condemned the targeting of journalists while performing their duties.
This latest development adds to the tension surrounding UniAbuja’s leadership crisis, with stakeholders calling for transparency and adherence to the institution’s selection guidelines.