THE IMPERATIVE OF DUE PROCESS AT FUNATO* *Favour Adéwọyin* September 9, 2025

 *THE IMPERATIVE OF DUE PROCESS AT FUNATO*

*Favour Adéwọyin*

September 9, 2025

We owe God endless gratitude for the gift of the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Òkehò (FUNATO) — the first full-fledged university in the Òkèògùn region of Ọ̀yọ́ State. Indeed, as the Yorùbá say, "ọ̀rọ̀ wa t'ọ́pẹ́ ó j'ọpẹ́ lọ" — our story begins and ends with thanksgiving.

The Federal Government’s recent policy of appointing leaders of new universities from their host communities has brought immense joy to Òkèògùn. It is why both the pioneer Vice Chancellor and Bursar of FUNATO hail from our land. And more may yet follow. Reliable sources indicate that in all new federal institutions, up to 75% of appointments will be drawn from host communities. This presents a rare opportunity for our people, but also a sobering responsibility.

Yes, we must rejoice. Yes, we must prepare to take our rightful place. But even as we position ourselves, we must insist that every appointment rests firmly on merit. Excellence, not sentiment, must be our guiding principle. For no community prospers by lowering standards; mediocrity only undermines the very progress we celebrate.

At FUNATO, the mandate should be clear that we need men and women of competence, character, and capacity — people who embody diligence, integrity, and vision. To build a university that will command global respect, we must stand against favouritism and support leadership that is committed to due process.

I do not envy my friend of almost five decades, Prof. Jacob Olaniyi Babayemi, the pioneer Vice Chancellor of FUNATO. The weight of expectations is heavy. If I, who am not in office, receive countless CVs daily, what then must be his lot? Yet I know him well enough to trust that he will not bow to pressure. Our duty is to help him succeed — through prayers, through encouragement, and, above all, by allowing him to follow due process without compromise.

Why Due Process Must Guide FUNATO? 

For FUNATO to thrive, due process is not optional — it is indispensable. It is the lifeblood of fairness, accountability, and institutional integrity.

*1. Safeguarding Credibility:*

A young university must build a reputation for fairness and transparency. Without due process, FUNATO risks being seen as unreliable both nationally and globally.

*2. Inspiring Confidence:*

Staff and students flourish when they trust that promotions, discipline, and welfare are handled justly. Due process will boost morale and prevent the unrest that plagues many older universities.

*3. Preventing Disruptions:*

Neglect of due process will invite lawsuits, audit queries, and political interference, all of which can derail academic progress. Adherence will protect the institution.

*4. Promoting Accountability and Attracting Resources:*

Transparent financial management will reassure government, partners, and donors. Institutions known for integrity will attract greater investment.

*5. Building a Culture of Excellence:*

When leaders respect rules, they set a precedent for professionalism and integrity. This culture, once embedded, will become FUNATO’s enduring legacy.

*The Way Forward:*

Due process is not red tape, it is the bedrock of sustainable leadership. It will ensure that FUNATO does not merely exist, but thrives as a model of what a modern, credible Nigerian university should be. The measure of FUNATO’s success will not only be in the number of graduates it produces, but in the integrity of its systems.

I have walked with Prof. Jacob Babayemi since our teenage ages from our secondary school days. From his days as O.C Light that we all addressed as a Scripture Union boy who refused to bend to shady dealings to his years as HOD, Dean, and President of the Society of Animal Scientists of Nigeria, his record has been consistent: excellence, integrity, and godliness. This new chapter will not be an exception.

However, for him to succeed, we must rally round him, but not burden him with undue pressure. If your child or relative does not merit appointment or admission, do not demand it at all costs. That is how institutions collapse. Let us, instead, support him in building a solid foundation anchored on merit - fairness, justice, equity, equality and inclusivity.

*Conclusion:*

We thank God for FUNATO. We thank Him for the policy that has given Òkèògùn indigenes the privilege of pioneering leadership. But above all, we must protect this gift by committing ourselves to due process.

This is only the beginning. Greater doors will yet open for Òkèògùn. Soon, one of us will rise as Governor, Senator, even President. With faith in God; and, with discipline, all things are possible.

Thank you.

*Pst. Favour Adéwọyin*

IPP, OIGS ’82 Set.