Says it is an attempt to tarnish varsity’s image
The management of Wesley University, Ondo, has dismissed a report that the institution is owing 29 months’ salaries of members of staff.
The Vice Chancellor (VC) of the university, Rt. Rev. (Prof.) Samuel Obeka, in a statement, yesterday, described the report as a malicious and fallacious publication capable of tarnishing the institution’s credible image.
Obeka, who also refuted the allegation that the institution collected taxes from workers’ salaries but did not remit them to the state authorities, said that the Incorporated Board of Trustees of Methodist Church Nigeria does not interfere with university matters, hence the issue of pension collection from workers of Wesley University by Methodist Church Nigeria and non-remittance did not arise at all.
“The university’s Accounts/Bursary and Audit Departments deal with the finances of the university and members of staff with the Senate and Council as regulatory bodies and pensions with taxes are paid.
“Methodist Church Nigeria has its Board of Trustees while Wesley University has its own separate Board of Trustees and Governing Council in line with National Universities Commission (NUC) policy.
“The church’s organogram and the university’s organogram are separate entities with each performing unique roles. While the church focuses on driving the spiritual and growth of members, the university is ecumenical and focuses on academic development,” the VC further explained.
The university, therefore, appealed to the public to ignore comments that could discredit the laudable efforts being made by the church and the university to make education affordable and accessible to all and sundry.
Obeka noted that the institution places a greater premium on quality and standards in all its activities, a policy which has contributed to attaining feats and recognition among tertiary institutions of learning in the world.
