The new vice-chancellor, University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali, yesterday assumed office as the 9th head of the institution with an admonition that heads of departments would be held responsible for any security breach or violence from their end.

Ambali's directive was coming just as his successor, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, advocated tenure extension for university bursars and registrars as against the single term pegged for them by the National Assembly.

The duo spoke at a press briefing to mark the commencement of the university's 28th convocation ceremonies and handing over to the new VC held.

Speaking against the backdrop of the recent statement by the Minister of Education Prof. Ruqqayyatu Rufa'i, that henceforth VCs would be held responsible for security of students under their headship, whether living on or off campuses, Ambali said he was prepared to carry on with task of making the institution "a shining example."

Ambali, however, extended his hands of fellowship to all those who contested the position with him, and appealed to them to join hands with him "in building a university that will be the pride of stakeholders."

On the convocation, Oloyede said the university graduated a total 5, 556 undergraduate students out of which 37 got first class, 988 2nd class Upper Division, 2,746 2nd class Lower Division, 1,234 3rd class, 310 pass, 61 Diploma and 180 MBBS graduands.