The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, has strongly criticized unethical practices within Nigerian universities, including faculty members coercing students into purchasing handouts, requesting preferential treatment, or imposing exorbitant fees for additional academic services.
Speaking with journalists in Calabar, Ndoma-Egba stressed that such practices significantly undermine academic integrity and erode the credibility of Nigeria’s educational system. He emphasized that he would not tolerate any concessions that could jeopardize the value of degrees awarded by FUOYE, asserting, “I will not accept any concessions that jeopardize the integrity of our degrees. The reputation of our university must be appreciated around the world.”
Drawing from his past experience at Federal University Lokoja, Ndoma-Egba revealed that he had taken decisive action against similar infractions. He disclosed that six lecturers were dismissed within two months of his tenure due to allegations of sexual harassment. “My first action upon starting at Federal University Lokoja was to fire six lecturers over allegations of sexual harassment. I demanded in-depth investigations, despite the fact that those occurrences happened prior to my tenure. As a lawyer, I am aware of how to assess the evidence and have insisted that conclusions and findings be in precise agreement,” he explained.
The Pro-Chancellor also expressed concerns over Nigeria’s deteriorating educational standards, particularly criticizing the proliferation of so-called ‘miracle centers’ that enable students to obtain high grades without possessing the requisite knowledge and skills. He lamented that this trend is further degrading the quality of education in the country.
TheNigeria Reporter noted that Ndoma-Egba commended FUOYE’s strict academic administration, which has earned the university a strong reputation. He credited the institution’s punctuality and resilience in academic scheduling as key factors in its distinction. “FUOYE’s main selling point is its ability to withstand setbacks and negative influences. We have maintained consistent timeliness, and our students were able to graduate on time despite obstacles like COVID-19 and a protracted ASUU strike,” he said.
In response to allegations of sexual harassment against FUOYE’s Vice-Chancellor, Ndoma-Egba reaffirmed his firm stance against such misconduct. “I find sexual harassment entirely unacceptable. I will act right away if someone is found guilty,” he stated. While acknowledging that the university had received a report from a committee established to investigate the Vice-Chancellor, he disclosed that fresh developments necessitated an extension of the probe.
“We have approved the committee’s request for additional time to finish the probe. I intend to call an urgent meeting shortly to go over the results and deal with this issue. This accusation must be addressed because it is overshadowing the university’s other accomplishments,” he remarked.
Ndoma-Egba’s commitment to upholding ethical standards at FUOYE underscores the importance of integrity in higher education. His call for accountability sends a strong message to both faculty and students, reinforcing the need for transparency and discipline within Nigerian universities. With his zero-tolerance policy for academic misconduct and sexual harassment, the Pro-Chancellor aims to protect students and uphold FUOYE’s growing reputation as a center of excellence in education.
