Paul University, Awka, a private Anglican-owned university in Anambra State, has suspended one of its lecturers, Cornelius Eze, over allegations of “serious sexual misconduct.” The university’s spokesperson, Godsplan Onukwufor, announced the suspension in a statement on Friday.
Allegations and Immediate Action
According to Mr Onukwufor, the allegation against Mr Eze, a practical biology technologist in the faculty of natural and applied sciences, was brought to the institution’s attention on 14 July. Given the rise in tension among students, the management “immediately intervened and invited the relevant security agency to take over the matter to forestall a breakdown of law and order.”
“As a preliminary administrative measure and without prejudice to the outcome of ongoing investigations, the university management has placed the staff on indefinite suspension pending the conclusion of both the internal disciplinary process and any investigations being conducted by the appropriate law enforcement authorities,” Mr Onukwufor stated.
Lecturer Also an Anglican Priest
Beyond his academic role, Mr Eze is also an Anglican priest in Anambra State, adding a layer of gravity to the allegations.
University’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
Mr Onukwufor emphasized that Paul University is a faith-based institution founded on principles of integrity, discipline, moral uprightness, and respect for human dignity. He stressed that the university does not condone any form of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment by any staff or students.
“Any member of staff or student found culpable of violating the University’s regulations or the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will be dealt with in accordance with due process,” he said.
Counselling and Support for Affected Students
The spokesperson said the management is mindful of the emotional and psychological impact of the incident on affected students and staff. “Consequently, arrangements are being made to provide appropriate counselling and therapeutic support for the student(s) concerned and any other affected members of the University community,” he added.
He assured parents, students, staff, and the public of the university’s commitment to a safe, secure, and morally sound learning environment where every member is treated with dignity and respect. “The university remains committed to ensuring that justice is served fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the law.”
Background of the Incident
Earlier in the week, a viral video clip surfaced on social media suggesting a university lecturer was caught forcefully having a sexual affair in his office with an unidentified student. In the clip, the lecturer was said to have escaped through a window when angry students stormed his office. The footage showed a man wearing only shorts hiding in a bush near the office.
Initially, there were speculations that the incident occurred at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (UNIZIK). However, UNIZIK’s spokesperson, Aloysius Attah, refuted the speculation, insisting the lecturer was not a staff member of that institution. Hours later, Paul University Awka posted a photograph of Mr Eze and confirmed he is a member of its staff.
