Former senator Babafemi Ojudu has publicly challenged Anthony Kila to provide documentary evidence of his academic and professional history. This comes after an investigation by Premium Times into allegations surrounding Kila's professorship. Ojudu expressed shock over the allegations, having known Kila through a Yoruba association where Kila had contributed to meetings and conducted himself with dignity. Ojudu emphasized the need for a clear and substantive response from Kila.
In a Facebook post, Ojudu detailed the information he believes Kila needs to provide. This includes details of his academic career, such as institutions attended, dates of study, qualifications obtained, and the identities of those who supervised his master's dissertation and doctoral thesis. Additionally, Ojudu asked Kila to provide information on where and when he taught and the process through which he became a professor. Relevant records, publications, and confirmation from institutions concerned could help settle the matter.
Ojudu also suggested that former teachers, classmates, colleagues, and students could corroborate Kila's account. He acknowledged Kila's right to seek legal redress over the allegations but emphasized that a clear, documented response would help reassure those who hold Kila in high regard. Ojudu urged Kila to provide evidence that could help those who respect him assess the allegations. By doing so, Kila can give a firm basis for his defenders to speak on his behalf.
Premium Times' investigation published on Saturday examined Kila's academic credentials and his use of the title of professor. The report found that Kila, who is the pro-chancellor of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, had long presented himself publicly as a professor and a "Jean Monnet Professor of Strategy and Development". However, the investigation revealed that he was never awarded the academic rank. This has led to disputes over the allegations.
Kila has threatened legal action over the report, insisting on his position and disputing the allegations. In response, Ojudu stated that while Kila is entitled to seek legal redress, providing verifiable evidence would go a long way towards answering the allegations. Ojudu's call for transparency comes as a result of his respect for Premium Times and his regard for Kila. He is yet to receive a response from Kila.
Ojudu and Kila have a history of public interaction, with Ojudu having served as senator for Ekiti Central from 2011 to 2015. During his tenure, he won the seat on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria, defeating former Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti. Ojudu's challenge to Kila is a result of his concern for Kila's reputation and the need for clarity on the allegations.
The controversy surrounding Kila's professorship has sparked a public debate on academic integrity and the use of titles. As the matter continues to unfold, Ojudu's call for transparency and evidence has become a significant aspect of the discussion. The academic community and the general public are watching closely to see how Kila responds to the allegations and Ojudu's challenge.
Key points
- Former senator Babafemi Ojudu challenges Anthony Kila to provide documentary evidence of his academic and professional history.
- Ojudu requests details of Kila's academic career, including institutions attended and qualifications obtained.
- Kila has threatened legal action over the allegations, but Ojudu believes verifiable evidence would help reassure those who respect him.
