Security in and around the University of LagosSenate building and council office was beefed up on Monday as the acting ViceChancellor, Prof. Omololu Soyombo, addressed the institution’s workers.
Soyombo solicited the support of the workers,adding that he had resumed effectively as the acting vice chancellor.
“I have resumed effectively as the VC and I hereby solicit the support of everymember of staff, so we can work together and discharge our duties peacefullyfor the interest and progress of UNILAG,” he said.
ThePunch correspondent, who visited UNILAG, observed large numbers ofpolicemen around the Senate building and governing council office and theyrestricted movement in the areas.
According to a worker who spoke on condition ofanonymity, policemen from the Apapa Division were deployed in the institutionto maintain the peace.
However, some senior staff members, including aformer Dean of Social Sciences, Prof. ‘Lai Olurode; and a member of theSenate, Prof. Ayo Olowe, in different statements, called for peace.
Olurode said, “Under the law which governsUNILAG, only the vice chancellor or anyone acting in that position canauthorise a meeting of the Senate. To do anything otherwise is to act indefiance of the law.
“An acting vice chancellor has been appointed; heshould be allowed to function in that capacity until a contrary pronouncementis issued.”
Olowe also said the choice of Soyombo by thecouncil was a good one.
“Prof. Omololu Soyombo is a man of peace andproven integrity. I have full confidence in his ability to resolve the current
impasse in the university,” he said.