The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, has strongly criticized unethical practices in Nigerian universities, including lecturers coercing students into buying handouts, seeking undue favors, or charging excessive fees for academic services.
Speaking with journalists in Calabar, Ndoma-Egba also condemned cases of sexual harassment involving students, warning that such misconduct severely undermines the integrity of the country’s education system. He recalled his tenure at Federal University Lokoja, where he dismissed six professors over sexual harassment allegations, vowing to uphold the same standards at FUOYE.
“I will not tolerate any compromises that threaten the credibility of our degrees. Our university credentials must be globally respected,” he stated. “At Federal University Lokoja, my first major decision was to terminate six professors within two months due to sexual harassment claims. Although these incidents predated my tenure, I demanded thorough investigations and ensured that the evidence matched the conclusions.”
Expressing concern over declining academic standards in Nigeria, Ndoma-Egba criticized the proliferation of so-called “miracle centers,” where students obtain high grades without the necessary skills. He described the trend as a major setback for the country’s education sector.
Highlighting FUOYE’s achievements, he noted that the university remains a top choice among students due to its strong academic governance and commitment to timely academic schedules. “FUOYE’s resilience against disruptions has made it the most preferred institution, as recognized by JAMB. Despite challenges like COVID-19 and prolonged ASUU strikes, our students have continued to graduate on time.”
Addressing ongoing sexual harassment allegations against FUOYE’s Vice-Chancellor, Ndoma-Egba affirmed that the institution takes such matters seriously. “Sexual harassment is unacceptable. If anyone is found guilty, immediate action will be taken,” he assured.
He revealed that the University Governing Council had set up a committee to investigate the allegations, but recent developments delayed the review of their findings. “The committee has requested more time to finalize its report, and we have granted their request. I plan to convene an emergency meeting soon to address the matter, as it is overshadowing the university’s other achievements,” he added.
