By DAYO ADESULU
Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State — September 15, 2025 – Babcock University has strongly condemned a recent publication by The People’s Gazette alleging misconduct in its ongoing process of appointing a new President/Vice-Chancellor.
In a statement released by the institution’s administration, the university described the report—published on September 12, 2025—as “baseless, fabricated, mischievous and malicious,” insisting it was a calculated attempt to malign its leadership and the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which owns the university.
University Disowns Alleged Advocacy Group
The report had alleged that an internal church advocacy group, “The Apostles Seventh-Day Adventist Advocacy Group,” was resisting the candidacy of Professor (Pastor) Afolarin Olutunde Ojewole over purported sexual misconduct.
Babcock University, however, stated it has no knowledge of such a group or its alleged coordinator, Elder Samson Fasasi. It described the individuals behind the claim as “fictitious, irresponsible, and self-seeking,” questioning why a credible media platform would associate with what it called “faceless miscreants.”
Professor Ojewole Cleared of Allegations
The administration emphasized that Professor Ojewole, who served as University Pastor/Associate Vice President for Spiritual Life until his leave of absence in 2018, has never faced any allegations of sexual infidelity, misconduct, or disciplinary action during his service.
The institution clarified that Ojewole’s leave of absence was granted purely for family reasons, as he relocated with his family to the United States. It added that the suggestion he was forced out was illogical since only an active staff member can contest for the office of President/Vice-Chancellor.
Transparent Search Process
The university highlighted that the Governing Council’s 2025 Search Committee is operating under “the highest spiritual, ethical, and procedural standards.” According to the statement, the appointment process is not political or subject to lobbying but guided by merit, spiritual soundness, and adherence to long-standing Seventh-day Adventist Church policies.
Babcock further dismissed claims that the outgoing Vice-Chancellor had manipulated the university’s by-laws to favor a candidate, stressing that only the Governing Council and the Board of Trustees have the authority to amend such regulations.
Warning Against Defamation
The statement described The People’s Gazette’s publication as “roguish” and a deliberate attempt to damage the university’s reputation. It warned individuals and groups behind such reports to desist, stressing that the university would not hesitate to seek legal redress if the attacks persist.
Commitment to Integrity
Reassuring stakeholders, the university reaffirmed that the ongoing Vice-Chancellor selection process remains fair, transparent, and merit-driven.
> “Babcock University’s legacy of moral integrity, spiritual depth, and academic excellence will never be compromised,” the statement concluded.
