The Management of Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has received with concern an online publication dated November 18, 2024, by one Adam Isa Waziri, which contained a flagrant misrepresentation of the accommodation arrangements during the just-concluded 8th Convocation Ceremony of the University. We are therefore compelled to present the facts and set the records straight.

The purported article, whether advertently or inadvertently, identified Professor Sarah Yani as the "University’s Chief Librarian.“ We wish to state clearly that Professor Sarah Yani is the University Librarian (if that is what the author meant) and by that position, a Principal Officer and a respected member of the University Management. She is a distinguished professor who has successfully chaired the Accommodation Committee for the past three (3) consecutive convocation ceremonies organized by the University. Her repeated appointment to this key role is a testament to the University’s confidence in her capacity, competence, and dedication to duty.

Contrary to the claims of preferential treatment, all high-profile guests, including visiting professors, were accommodated in some of the best hotels in accordance with standard practice and university protocols. Room allocations were carried out through a transparent process approved by the University Management, with records of all assigned rooms available for verification. The committee also worked diligently within the approved budgetary allocations and guidelines, ensuring fairness and accountability throughout the event.

The assertion that there was a disregard for authority is entirely unfounded and mischievous. The Accommodation Committee operated under the direct supervision of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, and followed all established protocols. The committee maintained regular communication with the University Management and implemented directives as issued by the Vice-Chancellor, ensuring a seamless and well-coordinated process.

Fortunately, the claims in the article were further contradicted by the overwhelming positive feedback received from our esteemed guests. The testimonials lauded the accommodation arrangements as some of the distinguished guests gave formal commendations to the University for the exceptional organization. We wish to also state that standard procedures for extended stays were clearly communicated, and the committee provided 24-hour support to address the needs of all the guests. It is important to note, however, that the only incident documented during the convocation period involved a non-compliance with the standard check-out procedures after an unauthorized extended stay.

Interestingly, the success of the just-concluded Convocation Ceremony, which the article itself acknowledged in its opening paragraph, was a result of meticulous planning and professional execution by all sub-committees, including the Accommodation Committee. Federal University Lokoja, under the leadership of Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, the Vice-Chancellor, maintains a high standard of transparency and accountability. While we welcome constructive criticism, we have a responsibility to also correct any misinformation that could mislead the public.

We, therefore, invite Mr. Waziri to engage in constructive dialogue with the University for any clarifications. Interested parties seeking verification of these facts can also contact the University Public Relations Officer via the number 07073317070.

In conclusion, Federal University Lokoja remains committed to upholding its reputation for excellence and maintaining the highest standard of professionalism in all its activities.