.. Accuses management of favouritism, bias
The Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes, and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI), Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta Chapter, has protested against alleged bias and administrative malpractice in the recent promotion exercise that affected some of its members.
The Protest which was peaceful was led by Comrade Basheer Ayobamiji Obabiyi, the Branch Chairman of SSAUTHRIAI, took place within the hospital premises on Friday morning to register their displeasure.
SSAUTHRIAI who also petitioned the acting Medical Director of FMC, alleged that several deserving employees were unjustly denied promotion, while others with similar or even lesser qualifications were elevated without following due process.
The letter, signed by Branch Chairman, Comrade B. A. Obabiyi, and Secretary, Comrade O. A. Olatunji, expressed “deep concern and disappointment” over what it termed “a clear case of double standard” in the conduct of the promotion exercise.
The union referenced the case of Comrade Obabiyi Basheer, who was reportedly denied elevation to the rank of Assistant Director despite meeting all requirements and passing the necessary qualifying exams.
“This decision is illogical and discriminatory, particularly when other staff members, such as Mrs. Fadahusi, who hold the same qualification, were promoted after taking the same examination,” the petition partly read.
It also questioned the basis of career progression among some administrative officers, noting that former and current Directors of Administration — Mr. Vaughan, Mr. Adefiwitan, and Mr. Kehinde Apanisile — all hold degrees in Education yet advanced without hindrance.
“This clear inconsistency in policy implementation smacks of bias, victimisation, and selective justice,” SSAUTHRIAI alleged.
The group further criticised the promotion of Engr. Mrs. Omoniyi from the Works and Maintenance Department, claiming she was elevated to Assistant Director despite not holding a university degree, while 13 other qualified staff were denied similar progression.
“Such inconsistencies erode trust, dampen morale, and threaten industrial peace within the institution,” the statement added.
SSAUTHRIAI therefore called on the management to:
Review and correct all affected promotion cases without delay;
Ensure that promotion standards are applied fairly across all departments; and
Put an end to alleged favoritism and bias in personnel administration.
The union warned that if the grievances were not resolved promptly, it would “escalate the matter publicly” and mobilise its members, media allies, and oversight bodies to expose what it termed an act of injustice.
“We urge management to act responsibly and uphold fairness, transparency, and industrial harmony. Continued silence or inaction will be regarded as provocation and an invitation to confrontation,” the union stated.
Responding to the allegations, the Acting Managing Director of FMC Abeokuta, Dr. Shared Adediran, confirmed receipt of inquiries regarding the petition and said the management would issue an official statement after consulting with the Director of Administration.
Similarly, the Director of Administration, Mr. Kehinde Apanisile, acknowledged that the management had received the union’s complaint.
“A copy of the letter was received today, and the hospital management is already reviewing the matter,” Apanisile said. “We assure all staff that due process will be observed and the issue will be handled in line with civil service regulations.”
