Tensions are once again rising at the College of Education, Zing, Taraba State, following fresh accusations by academic and non-academic staff against the institution’s management over alleged irregularities in the staff promotion process.

The Guardian reports that several disgruntled staff members have accused the college leadership of sidelining qualified personnel while promoting less experienced individuals, allegedly in violation of standard procedures and principles of fairness.

“After fulfilling the college’s conditions of service, many of us were denied promotion, while far junior colleagues were elevated. This is injustice,” one employee lamented.

Sources revealed that some staff members have not received any promotion since January 2017, while others appear to have advanced swiftly, allegedly due to favoritism and backing from influential figures within the institution.

The controversy has also extended to the college’s governing council, with staff accusing the chairman of a conflict of interest in the recent appointment of a Deputy Bursar.

One source alleged that the chairman adjudicated a matter in which he had a personal stake, stating, “Those who should face disciplinary action are being rewarded, while committed and qualified staff like Atta are marginalised.”

The aggrieved staff have called on the college’s governing council to urgently review the promotion procedures and rectify the alleged injustices.

They also appealed to Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, and the Head of Service, Dr. Ahmed Kara, to intervene and restore transparency and fairness in the institution.

In response to the allegations, the Provost, Professor Ejika Sambo, defended the administration’s record. He said his tenure has seen two successful rounds of staff promotions, adding that promotions were granted to all those who met the necessary criteria, including some who had previously been overlooked for more than 20 years.

“Some staff had issues that hindered their promotion, but those who met the requirements were promoted,” he stated.

Professor Sambo also criticised the anonymity of the complainants, stressing the need for openness and direct engagement to address grievances.

Despite these assurances, discontent continues to simmer within the college community, with staff members insisting they will not relent in their demand for justice until, in their words, “the right peg is inserted in the right hole.”