Prof. Barineme Beke Fakae has been reinstated into the service of Rivers State University as a Professor in the Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Faculty of Sciences.
This reinstatement comes following the approval of His Excellency Sir Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS, the Governor of River State and the Visitor to the University.
Governor Fubara directed that all necessary steps be taken to ensure the prompt payment of accumulated salaries and allowances owed to Prof. Fakae, emphasizing his immediate resumption of duties.
After serving two terms as Vice Chancellor, Prof. Fakae found himself embroiled in a legal battle with the University, challenging his unwarranted dismissal and the withholding of his wages, allowances, and sabbatical entitlements.
Since 2015, the legal proceedings have unfolded with successive favorable judgments in Prof. Fakae’s favor, only to be met with further appeals, prolonging the pursuit of justice.
Throughout this ordeal, Prof. Fakae, an esteemed member of The Apostolic Church Nigeria’s executive council, tirelessly sought resolution, even exploring out-of-court settlements, all to no avail.
During his eight-year tenure as Vice Chancellor, by the appointment of Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Prof. Fakae transformed Rivers State University of Science and Technology from a struggling institution into Nigeria’s premier state-owned university.
Under his leadership, the university underwent a digital revolution, eliminating human errors from its operational protocols and optimizing administrative processes. Senate proceedings, admissions, accommodations, student portals, and campus infrastructure were all digitized, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
Prof. Fakae’s tenure also marked the eradication of cultism, admissions fraud, and other vices, fostering a conducive environment for academic excellence. He prioritized student welfare, fostering a serene campus atmosphere and actively engaging with student unions to promote growth and development.
Prior to his role as Vice Chancellor, Prof. Fakae served as the substantive Rector of Rivers State Polytechnic, Bori (now Ken-Sarowiwa Polytechnic), appointed by former Governor Peter Odili—a testament to his proven track record in educational leadership.
His appointment to Rivers State University of Science and Technology was a pivotal moment, entrusted with the mandate to revive an institution plagued by violence and academic stagnation.
Today, Prof. Fakae’s vindication is a testament to perseverance and faith. Despite the challenges, he remained steadfast in his commitment to excellence, serving as a beacon of inspiration and leadership both within academia and beyond.
As we celebrate his reinstatement, let us honor Prof. Barineme Beke Fakae for his enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice and academic excellence.
Congratulations, Prof. Fakae, on this well-deserved victory. Here’s to many more triumphs ahead.
Dr. Phoebe Goodwill
