Scrutiny deepens as Babcock denies sexual misconduct allegations against VC candidate

Babcock University is under pressure to provide greater transparency after allegations surfaced against one of its Vice-Chancellor candidates, Dr. Afolarin Ojewole, accusing him of past sexual misconduct involving a student.

The claims, circulated by an online platform, suggest the university may be shielding Ojewole a former Associate Vice President for spiritual life and university pastor as part of an attempt to install him as the next Vice-Chancellor.

In a statement released on Monday, September 15th, 2025, the institution categorically denied the allegations, describing them as “fabricated, baseless, cheap blackmail and a figment of the writer’s imagination.” The statement, signed by the Director of Marketing and Communication, Joshua Suleiman, asserted that Ojewole was never investigated for any sexual misconduct during his time at the university.

According to Babcock, Ojewole’s 2018 departure alongside his wife, was motivated by family commitments in the United States, not disciplinary action. The university also maintained that no formal complaint, committee, or disciplinary process was ever convened on any such matter involving him. Still, the absence of any documented internal investigation has drawn criticism from observers calling for more independent oversight.

The university’s response emphasized the integrity of its vice chancellor selection process, calling it “sacred, spiritual, and guided by merit, excellence, prayerful consideration, and the church’s long-established policies.” However, some stakeholders argue that invoking spirituality should not preclude transparency especially in the face of serious allegations that could damage the university’s credibility.

Further controversy has arisen from unverified claims that outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ademola Tayo, is attempting to influence the selection process in Ojewole’s favor. Suleiman rejected the idea as “mischief,” calling it a deliberate effort to malign the church, divide stakeholders, and undermine a process the university insists is immune to manipulation or lobbying.

Despite the institution’s firm denial, critics are asking whether Babcock has done enough to independently verify Ojewole’s record before including him among candidates for its highest academic office. No external body appears to have reviewed the allegations, and attempts to independently corroborate his 2018 exit timeline remain inconclusive.

The online report that triggered the controversy has not been publicly verified, and Ojewole has not personally responded to the allegations. Nonetheless, some alumni and former staff have taken to social media to suggest that past concerns about the candidate’s conduct were known within the university community but never formally addressed.

With Professor Tayo set to complete his tenure in November and a new Vice-Chancellor expected to be announced on December 1st, the university’s leadership transition is now being closely watched. As the process unfolds, questions linger not just about one candidate’s past, but about the systems in place to ensure accountability and institutional integrity.