NEWS
Abia Govt. Moves to Restore Academic Integrity as EXCO Constitutes 5-Man Special Investigative Committee Over Alleged Harassment, Extortion, Bribery and Certificate Forgery at ABSU
The Abia State Executive Council has constituted a 5-man Special Investigative Committee to probe recent allegations of harassment, extortion, bribery and other unethical practices reportedly involving students and lecturers of Abia State University, in what observers describe as another decisive move by the administration of Alex Otti to restore discipline, transparency and academic excellence across state-owned institutions.
The announcement was made on Monday by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, while briefing journalists at Government House, Umuahia, on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR.
According to the Commissioner, the committee was established as part of deliberate efforts by the state government to ensure the highest level of academic and ethical standards within the university system and to protect the integrity of tertiary education in Abia State.
Prince Kanu explained that the investigative panel would thoroughly examine the disturbing allegations that have generated public concern within and outside the university community, especially issues bordering on harassment, extortion, bribery and certificate-related misconduct.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pst. Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D, would serve as Chairman of the committee, while the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Dodoh Okafor, would serve as Secretary.
“First, identification of the perpetrators of the breaches and to make appropriate recommendations to the visitor of the University.
“Two, to thoroughly investigate allegations of bribery and forged certificate against a lecturer.
“Three, to determine the extent of the implementation of the white paper on the 2024 full investigation panel to the university and to identify implementation gaps.
“Four, any other matter that may be relevant to the ongoing transformation and restoration of Abia State University as a citadel of learning and excellence in teaching and research,” Prince Kanu stated, as he outlined the committee’s terms of reference as follows
Other members of the committee include Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, Professor Idowu Eluwa and Professor Lawrence Idemudua.
The committee is expected to work closely with the Governing Council of the university in carrying out its assignment, with many stakeholders expressing hope that the investigation would help sanitise the institution, strengthen public confidence and reinforce the state government’s commitment to repositioning Abia State University as a centre of academic excellence, discipline, research and global best practices.
The development is seen as part of the broader reforms being championed by the administration of Governor Alex Otti towards restoring credibility, accountability and institutional efficiency across critical sectors in Abia State.