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UNILAG Promised Us Medicine But Gave Us Botany – Candidates

Published

8 years ago

September 27, 2016

Fresh admission controversy has hit the University of Lagos as some candidates are accusing the authorities of high-handedness, CHARLES ABAH writes

For no fewer than 57 candidates, who participated in the 2015/2016 Foundation programmes that would enable them to study Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos, this September seems to be the longest month that they have ever witnessed in life.

In fact, since September 9, these candidates have not known peace, considering what they called high-handedness of the authorities of the university.

According to them, having passed all the necessary qualifying examinations that would enable them to proceed to the medical school, having spent hundreds of naira in terms of tuition and other sundry fees – undergoing a foundation programme – the authorities of the university are now scheming to abort their dreams.

Already, they have written to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rahamon Bello, demanding that the authorities should urgently look into their case.

In the letter dated September 20, 2016, the candidates, under the auspices of 2015/2016 Foundation MBBS, noted that denying them admission to study medicine in the ivory tower would be akin to a miscarriage of justice.

They copied the registrar of the university, director, School of Foundation Studies, provost, College of Medicine, as well as the Joint University Preliminary Examination Board in the petition.

Parts of their letter read, “The School of Foundation Studies admitted over 800 students into its programme with a promise that those who scored AAA (16 points) in all their courses shall be admitted to 200 level to study Medicine. We were asked to pay a huge sum of money – about half a million naira.

“The university tested us with a curriculum and at the end of the exercise, 87 of us obtained the required A’s. As if the management was happy about the less than 10 per cent pass, it came out with another fresh directive, which seems to call a ball that went over the bar a goal. The university said that it could only admit 30 students.

“Are we now being told that the university is nothing but a business centre and the JUPEB programme is nothing but a fraud? We hereby demand justice. This is but a rape on the collective intelligence of Nigerian students and an attempt to reduce the citadel of learning to a mere business venture. No sane society will let this go unchallenged. The university should provide reasons why, despite the recession in the country, parents will be made to cough out such whopping sums on empty promises.”

Our correspondent gathered that each of the candidates paid non-refundable acceptance fees of N25,000; N350,000 tuition; N7,500 medical insurance; N25,000 for examinations; N700 for syllabus, and N850 for biometric identity card. Besides, the candidates made personal arrangements for their accommodation for the one year that the programme lasted.

Beyond the fees, the narratives by some of the affected candidates and their guardians are the type some people will describe as touching.

“I have a B.Sc in Nursing from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. I graduated in 2009. No fewer than 800 of us enrolled for this programme last year and only 87 of us obtained the required three A’s to study medicine. With this, admission to the college of medicine would ordinarily be automatic but the authorities are changing the rules mid way into the game. This is not so in other universities.

“To study medicine in many other universities, one requires only 13 points, but here we all obtained 16 points. Yet, the authorities of UNILAG say they do not have space for us. I know how I struggled to make these grades. I know the psychological stress that I passed through to enable me to achieve this success. This programme nearly cost me my marriage as I struggled daily to cater to my husband and two teenage children.

“Why would I suffer the consequences of lack of space when they admitted so many candidates in the first place? The Federal Government needs to intervene in this matter; otherwise, we shall spend another year at home due to no fault of ours. Today, the authorities are asking us to go for such courses as fishery, botany, cell biology, psychology. Please, when has it become a crime to pass an examination? After having a degree in nursing, they expect me to start another course in fishery,” the candidate, who craved anonymity for fear of victimisation, said.

For another candidate, Adesewa, the decision of the university management will cut short her dream of becoming a medical doctor. The young lady, who said she obtained her WASSCE in 2013, noted that she had forfeited other admission placements just for her to study medicine.

She said, “I abandoned the admission I got to study Bio-Chemistry at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State in 2013 just to study medicine. In 2014, I sat for another UTME and obtained 68.75 aggregate marks. The cut off that year at UNILAG was 70 marks. In 2015, I enrolled for this foundation programme. Now, see the frustration I am facing again.”

But the Director, School of Foundation Studies, Prof. Oluwole Familoni, said the university did not promise any candidate automatic admission for medicine. According to him, both the candidates and their parents knew ab initio that the university had limited spaces for medical students.

He added, “There was no assurance of automatic admission for any candidate. Of course, we could not have done that because the regulators, the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, would not allow us to admit more than 100 students.

“Agreed, the 87 candidates did well, they cannot force the authorities to admit them all to the College of Medicine and that is why we have given them the option to enrol for other programmes.”

On why the institution enrolled hundreds of candidates for the programme knowing that it had limited spaces, Familoni said it was a competition thrown open for all interested candidates.

He noted, “We could not have enrolled only 30 candidates for the foundation courses because we have only 30 spaces for them. It is akin to seeking employment in an organisation. Every firm has the right to select from the millions of applicants, those it considers suitable.

“We did not force them to purchase the forms. It’s a pity that they want to destroy the image of the university. They can go to court if they feel so aggrieved. Some persons tried it recently and they lost the case in the court. You cannot force any university to offer you admission.”

But a retiree, Mr. Joseph Taiwo, who said that he sold some of his personal effects, including his car, to ensure that his son sail through the foundation programme, noted that his family had not been in lively spirits since the news got to them.

He added, “When we initially received a report that he was among the few that obtained three straight A’s, we went for thanksgiving in our church. But that bubbling situation has died down in my home. We have all been wearing a mournful look since September 9 when news filtered that only 30 of them would be offered admission. Ordinarily, I would have sent him overseas to pursue the same course but I do not have the wherewithal.”

Appraising the development, the Coordinator, Education Rights Campaign, Mr. Taiwo Hassan, said the handling of the situation by the university was wrong.

“What UNILAG has done is very wrong and unacceptable. It amounts to changing the rules in the middle of the game. What the university has done is a violation of the rights of the students and I urge the affected foundation students not to take this lying low. They should stand up and organise themselves to challenge this injustice legally and politically. No one should accept that nothing could be done about this.

“As far as the ERC is concerned, we believe that this routine violation of students’ rights by UNILAG is one too many. Early in the year, about 102 undergraduates, who came into the university through the UTME for Medicine and Surgery were treated in the same way. Now is the time to say enough is enough to the impunity of the authorities,” the ERC helmsman said.

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Celebrating a Distinguished Patriot and Statesman: General Olu Bajowa @84

Published

1 hour ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Celebrating a Distinguished Patriot and Statesman: General Olu Bajowa @84

Today, we gather in spirit and gratitude to celebrate a man whose life epitomizes selfless service, courage, and unwavering dedication to the progress of our nation, Nigeria. At 84, General Olu Bajowa, OFR, CFR stands as a towering symbol of patriotism, leadership, and philanthropy.

General Bajowa’s influence transcends the military. He has consistently provided wise counsel and leadership in public service, contributing meaningfully to national development. His voice remains a beacon of reason and vision, advocating for policies that uplift the Nigerian people and preserve the nation’s unity.

Born to Lubokun Royal family, at Igbotako Osooro in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, on 27th December 1940. Prince (Rtd) Major General (Dr) Sir Joseph Oluyemi Bajowa attended Anglican Elementary School, Igbotako, Manuwa Memorial Grammar School Iju-Odo, Okitipupa, Gboluji Anglican Grammar School, Ile-Oluji, Ondo. He finished his Secondary Education at Gboluji in 1959, and later attended Federal School of Science, Lagos 1960, for his “A” Levels. He worked as a civil Servant in the then Federal Ministry of Lands and Survey in Lagos and later as a 3rd Class Clerk in the Houses of Parliament, Lagos.

Professionally, General Olu Bajowa joined the Nigerian Army as a Cadet in training at the then Military College, now Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna in September, 1960 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant at Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot, England in 1961. He was later attached to the British Army in the Rhine, Western Germany during the “Cold War”, after which he was posted to 4th Infantry Battalion of the Nigerian Army Ibadan in 1962 to start his Military Career.

He took part in the United Nations Peace keeping Operations in the Congo and the Nigerian Civil War. He climbed through the rungs of the Officer Corps to the rank of Major General and retired meritoriously from the Nigerian Army in 1980 at the age of 40 years.

Amongst the appointments held while in Military Service were Platoon Commander, Military Transport Officer, General Staff Officer Grade 111 and General Officer Grade 11 both at Army Headquarters, Ministry of Defence, Lagos, Company Commander, Brigade Major, Battalion Commander, General Staff Officer Grade 1 at 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters, Brigade Commander, Acting General Officer Commanding 3 Infantry Division of the Nigerian Army, Adjutant General of the Nigerian army, and Quarter-Master-General of the Nigerian Army both at Ministry of Defence, Lagos. He was also Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. Jaji-Kaduna, (1978-1979).

Significantly, He was on active service in Western Germany with the British Army in 1961, during the “Cold War”. He served two tours in the United Nations Operation in Congo with 4 BN NA in 1962, at Kinshasha, and in 1963 at Leopoville (now Zaire) with 1st BN NA. He took active part in the Nigerian civil War. Infact he was the one as the Commanding Officer 11 BN NA at Iwo road Ibadan, Olusegun Obasanjo ordered to move his Battalion on 9th August 1976 from Ibadan to defend the Western Region Boarder at Ofusu/Owena River bridge, to prevent the incursion of the 101st Division of the Biafran Army during its advance to capture Ibadan and Lagos and occupy Western Region, after the fall of Benin City and Mid-Western Region, in a Biafran Army lighting operation of 101st Division of the Biafran Army. He held the Ofusu/Owena Bridge and fought in the legendry Ore Battle (“Ija Ore, Oleku”). He miraculously survived four (4) coups while in military service and three (3) coups after his recall from retirement, to serve the nation in different capacities, during the Military Interregnum.

On the Military-Political Front, he was a Military Member of the Executive Council of the then Western State of Nigeria, Military Member of the Executive Council and Acting Military Governor of the Southeastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States); and also Acting Military Governor of Rivers State (now Rivers and Bayelsa States).

After retirement from the Nigerian Army, he went into business, politics and later into academics. He enrolled into the University of Lagos in 1983, where he obtained Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with Second Class Honours, Upper Division, (2.1) in 1988. He was awarded Doctor of Theology by the Theological Seminary, Durban, South Africa, in London, 2005, in affiliation with Trinity University and College, Delaware, USA and he has currently enrolled for Bachelor of Law Degree, University of London, England.

He was a Member of the Governing Council of Ondo State University (1981/1982) and in 1983 he was
appointed Chairman Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria. He was also appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of Nigeria Airways Limited in January 1988. Sole Administrator of Nigeria Airways Limited in October same year and Managing Director and Member of the Presidential Task Force of Nigeria Airways Limited (1988-1989). He was later appointed as Special Assistant in the Presidency and Co-ordinator Movement of Seat of Government and Federal Ministries from Lagos to Abuja. He was appointed the Director-General/Permanent Secretary, Deputy Minister Ministry of Defence in 1990-1993 and Permanent Secretary, Federal ministry of Industry in 1993-1997, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Science and Technology from 1997-1999, and Chairman of all related Companies and Parastatals of the Ministries.

His decorations include Medals of the United Nations Peace Keeping Operations in the Congo, The Nigerian civil war. Forces Meritorious Service Star (FSS) in 1983, and Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR), in recognition of his Military Service (1960 -1980), and gazette in 1998 for the honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR), in recognition of his Federal Civil Service (1988 – 1999). He is a Distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Security Nigeria (dfisn).

In recognition of General Olu Bajowa’s contribution to the security and development of Ikale-Land, his people honoured him with the Chieftaincy titles of Jagunmolu of Ikale-Land and Ojagbulegun from The Source (Ayeka Kingdom), and Ajagungbade of Idepe-Okitipupa, Ondo State of Nigeria. He was a Member of the Board of Governors of International Foundation for Science (IFS) in Stockholm, Sweden, and also Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy, (1997-1999). He creditably concluded his tenure as the Chairman of Programmes and Budget Committee (PBC) of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in Vienna, Austria, a post he held for one year (1997/1998).

He is a sports enthusiast, philanthropist and happily married with children. He is an author and had to his credits four (4) books, namely: Spring of a Life, Ikale, Soldier by Choice and Egbaiyelo (Legacy of a legend).

General Bajowa’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and heritage is equally commendable. As a proud custodian of tradition, he has tirelessly championed initiatives to celebrate and protect the rich cultural tapestry of his people.

As he celebrates this remarkable milestone, we reflect on a life well-lived—a life devoted to God, country, and humanity. At 84, General Olu Bajowa remains an icon of hope and inspiration, a symbol of resilience, and a beacon of wisdom.

On behalf of friends, family, and admirers across the globe, we wish General Olu Bajowa a happy 84th birthday. May your days be filled with continued joy, good health, and fulfillment. Your legacy shines brightly, and we are forever grateful for your immeasurable contributions to our nation and beyond.

DARE ADELEKAN

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Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

Published

7 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

In a heartwarming gesture of generosity, Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi on Thursday, December 26, brought immense joy to over 2,000 children in the bustling city of Ajegunle, Lagos. The festive spirit filled the air as the star athlete, alongside local dignitaries and notable figures, made Christmas unforgettable for the children in this vibrant community.

The grand event, held at the Maracana Sports Centre, was a collaborative effort between Ndidi, renowned businessman Yemi Idowu, Fatai Ayoola, the chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, and the traditional ruler of Iwa and Apapa, Mohammed Amodu-Tijani. The Boxing Day children’s party became a major highlight of the Christmas season in Ajegunle, attracting widespread attention from locals and the media.

Despite currently sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Ndidi took the time to give back to the community in a deeply personal way. The 28-year-old midfielder was seen serving food to the excited children and distributing gifts, bringing smiles and happiness to everyone present. His presence at the event served as an uplifting reminder of the power of generosity and community spirit.

Speaking to the crowd, Ndidi explained that his own childhood experiences were a driving force behind the initiative. “I feel like it’s a festive period and these kids deserve something like this. It’s something they will have to remember and the memory sticks with them,” Ndidi said, his voice filled with sincerity.

He continued, “The happiness on the faces of the children can’t be explained. When you do something for adults, the emotions stay with them only, but when you do something for kids, the adults see it as well, so they also try to do the same. All we are trying to do is to create memories, and I’m happy to be doing this because some of us didn’t have this experience while growing up. I grew up in the barracks like most people know. This is not about football now. Schools are on break and this is a time to create memories, especially among kids.”

The event was not only about the celebration but also about fostering a sense of unity and shared joy. Yemi Idowu, CEO of Cana Sports, expressed his admiration for Ndidi’s involvement. “This is part of something we do every year to try and celebrate with the kids, especially because we are here in Ajegunle and they are friends. I am very happy to have the king, the chairman, and Wilfred to support us in doing this. It has a bigger impact when we all work together.”

The Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Fatai Ayoola, commended the collective effort to bring smiles to the faces of the children. He highlighted the meticulous organization that made the event a success, explaining, “What we have done is to first accredit them from the LGA secretariat and we drove the kids into this venue. We also made arrangements for those who would come unannounced at the Maracana Park, and they would equally be taken care of as much as those inside so we can have a perfect party. It’s a back-to-back celebration for the kids of Ajegunle, and we are elated to host Ndidi. This month alone, we have had three visitors who have given the kids befitting Christmas gifts. So, what we are doing is to make them happy in grand style.”

The event served as a beautiful reminder of the true essence of Christmas — bringing people together, spreading joy, and creating lasting memories. For the children of Ajegunle, it was a day filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments, thanks to the unwavering commitment of Wilfred Ndidi and his collaborators.

As the community continues to celebrate the season, the impact of Ndidi’s kind gesture will no doubt be felt for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be part of the festivities.

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Nollywood Star Omoborty Seals Her Love Story with a Stunning Legal Wedding

Published

8 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Nollywood Star Biodun Okeowo, “Omoborty,” Officially Ties the Knot in Legal Ceremony

Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Biodun Okeowo, widely known as Omoborty, has officially tied the knot with her partner in a heartfelt legal ceremony. The event, which comes months after their traditional wedding, was held on a significant day for the actress—her birthday.

Omoborty took to Instagram to share the joyous news, posting stunning photos from the ceremony. The images captured the love and joy of the occasion, which marked a new chapter in her life.

“In the euphoria of my birthday, I’m thrilled to share the memories from one of the most beautiful days of my life. The day I legally said ‘yes’ to the man of my heart before God and man,” she wrote in her caption.

The actress emphasized that all necessary customs and protocols were observed, expressing pride in her journey to becoming “Mrs. Biodun Sofuyi.” Reflecting on the milestone, she added, “My first wedding, and by God’s grace, the last. Amen.”

Omoborty’s fans and colleagues have since flooded her social media pages with congratulatory messages and heartfelt well-wishes, celebrating her new status as a legally married woman.

The actress, known for her captivating performances and entrepreneurial spirit, continues to inspire with her authenticity and joy. With this union, she embarks on a fresh chapter filled with hope, love, and the blessings of a bright future.