COOU Dismisses Four Staff Members Over Extortion, Examination Fraud, Theft

By Praise Chinecherem

The Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State, has approved the dismissal of four members of staff over various acts of misconduct, including alleged extortion of students, examination malpractice and theft of university property.

The affected staff members are Dr Edward Egwuaba of the Department of Sociology; Mr Ohakaba Romanus of the Security Department, Uli Campus; and Mr Obinna Adams and Mr Okochichi Vincent, both of the Security Unit, Igbariam Campus.

The university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Harrison Madubueze, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that the decision followed the consideration of a disciplinary report by the institution’s Governing Council.

According to the statement, the offences included demanding money from students in exchange for manipulating examination results, as well as negligence of security duties, which reportedly resulted in the escape of a suspect in custody.

The disciplinary decision was reached at the 123rd meeting of the 8th Governing Council, chaired by the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Azikiwe Onwualu.

The university said the action was part of its efforts to strengthen institutional accountability, enforce professional standards and promote discipline among members of staff.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting students’ welfare, safeguarding university property, preserving the integrity of its academic processes and upholding the institution’s reputation.

The Governing Council further maintained that integrity, responsibility, transparency and excellence would remain core principles guiding the administration of the state-owned university.

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