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EKPOMA, Edo State — Fresh controversy has engulfed following allegations that the institution's management bypassed due process in executing a digital transformation agreement, a development critics say has deepened concerns over governance, accountability and administrative transparency.
In a strongly worded commentary titled "Ambrose Alli University in Free Fall: The Cost of Blind Digital Experimentation by an Errant Management Team," an author identified simply as The Observer accused the university's Vice-Chancellor and members of the management team of executing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SchoolTry Limited without obtaining the approval of the University's Governing Council.
According to the commentary, the decision allegedly contravened established governance procedures by sidelining the Governing Council, which is the institution's highest policy-making body. The author argued that such a move undermines the legal and administrative framework governing major institutional decisions and raises serious questions about compliance with due process.
The article further alleged that the migration from the university's existing portal to a new digital platform was undertaken without adequate technical evaluation, comprehensive data migration safeguards or sufficient functional testing. It warned that the development had disrupted academic and administrative processes while exposing the institution to operational and reputational risks.
The commentary also questioned the financial and fiduciary implications of entering into a major contractual arrangement without the approval of the Governing Council. It maintained that universities are expected to adhere to strict financial governance procedures designed to ensure transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.
Beyond the administrative concerns, the author argued that the controversy could negatively affect the university's public image at a time when Nigerian universities are seeking greater global visibility, improved research rankings and accelerated digital transformation. According to the commentary, the unfolding situation has created uncertainty among students, staff, alumni, development partners and other stakeholders regarding the institution's leadership and digital infrastructure.
The Observer called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the agreement, urging the appropriate authorities to establish whether due process was followed. The commentary also advocated the introduction of stronger institutional safeguards to ensure that major policy and contractual decisions receive the necessary statutory approvals before implementation.
As of the time of filing this report, the management of had not publicly responded to the specific allegations contained in the commentary. Efforts to obtain the university's official reaction were unsuccessful.
The development is expected to generate further debate among stakeholders as calls grow for greater transparency, accountability and adherence to established governance procedures within the institution.
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