UNILORIN Alumni Association Leadership Crisis: Two Factions Claim Presidency
The leadership crisis rocking the University of Ilorin Alumni Association has taken a dramatic turn, with two factions laying claim to its presidency.
Professor Kilani Abdulrasheed Olusuyi vs. Dr. Stephen Olawale Fashakin
One faction, endorsed by the university authority and past alumni presidents, is led by Professor Kilani Abdulrasheed Olusuyi, while the rival group is headed by Dr. Stephen Olawale Fashakin.
The Kilani-led executive has called on the Nigerian Police and the Department of State Security (DSS) to investigate Dr. Fashakin for alleged impersonation. In a statement signed by the association’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olorunsuwa Elijah Ola, the group accused Fashakin of actions that could disrupt peace, including presenting himself as president during visits to prominent figures like the Controller General of Immigration, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap.
The statement further alleged that Dr. Fashakin’s tenure ended abruptly in 2021 due to “gross abuse of office, high-handedness, and betrayal of trust.” A caretaker committee reportedly managed the association until a new election was held on August 24, 2024, ushering in Kilani’s leadership.
Fashakin’s Faction Responds: In contrast, representatives of the Fashakin-led faction, including Mr. Yomi Olumuyide and Dr. Segun Ipinniwa, dismissed Kilani’s claims as baseless. They insisted that Dr. Fashakin remains the authentic president, pointing to an ongoing court case (Suit No: KWS/92/2021) as evidence.
The group described the election that produced Kilani as a “kindergarten drama” and accused him of impersonation.
Implications for Stakeholders: The crisis has left stakeholders divided, with both factions warning against associating with the other. Observers await the court’s verdict to determine the legitimate leadership of the alumni association.
