The University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University, is at the center of fresh controversy as Professor Jibrin Edicha Abdullahi faces allegations of illegally retaining his position as Head of the Geography Department while on sabbatical leave.
Documents obtained by SaharaReporters reveal that Abdullahi, whose promotion from Associate Professor to Professor was backdated to October 1, 2020, was reappointed as HOD for a two-year term starting July 31, 2023. However, in September 2024, he applied for a one-year sabbatical at the National Defence College, which was approved in October.
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Despite being on sabbatical, sources claim Abdullahi has continued to chair meetings and disciplinary committees, prompting concerns about governance at the institution. Some faculty members blame the situation on former Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aisha Maikudi, labeling the irregularity as “Aisha’s Magic.”
Abdullahi has denied the allegations, insisting he left the department in January. The university spokesperson, Dr. Habib Yakoob, declined to comment.
