Jos: The University of Jos has described as inaccurate former sports minister Solomon Dalung’s claim that Prof. Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), lacks credibility.
The University, through Prof. Francis Kwede, Dean of Law, stated that the allegations are unfounded.
Kwede stated that the timing and nature of Dalung’s comments were unexpected by the faculty.
Dalung had accused Amupitan of corruption and sharp practices during his tenure as Dean of the Law Faculty.
Dalung, among other things, alleged that Amupitan lacked the integrity to deliver credible elections in 2027.
Kwede, responding to the claims, stated that the allegations lack substantiation.
Kwede noted that Dalung’s comments may impact the reputation of Amupitan, the Faculty, and the University of Jos.
“He claimed that Amupitan traded off the results of 16 students who graduated with Second Class Upper Degrees in the LL.B class of 2009/2010 session, with a group of special students, while he was the Dean.”
The Faculty confirms that it did not happen in that class.
To our knowledge, such did not occur in any class.
No results were manipulated or traded for awards.
Kwede stated that when Amupitan assumed office as Dean in 2008, he introduced the use of an Excel Spreadsheet for the compilation of results in the Faculty, replacing the previous manual system. According to Kwede, this change reduced processing delays in results and minimised errors, allowing students to receive grades more quickly.
Kwede indicated that the Excel formula contributed to more efficient and accurate compilation of results.
He added that the improved system received a positive reception at the university for helping final-year students meet Nigerian Law School deadlines and reducing delays associated with the previous manual processing.
Management stated that the allegation regarding Amupitan’s integrity is viewed as inaccurate and politically motivated.
The general public is advised to consider the allegation in this context.
The Faculty of Law and the University have observed that Amupitan has fulfilled his official responsibilities.
Kwede concluded that, based on the information available, there is no basis for the allegations against Amupitan.
