IGBARIAM — The Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State, has officially dismissed five senior staff members. The decision, finalized during the university’s 122nd governing council meeting on June 12, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing effort to restore discipline and protect the welfare of its student body.

The Personnel Dismissed for Gross Misconduct

The university management, through a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer, Dr. Harrison Madubueze, confirmed the termination of the following individuals due to their culpability in severe ethical violations, including sexual abuse, harassment, intimidation, and financial extortion:

  • Prof. C.C. Nwabachili: Immediate past Dean of the Faculty of Law.

  • Prof. Chike Osegbue: Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences.

  • Dr. I.H. Iheukwumere: Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences (Uli Campus).

  • Mr. Emeka Nwabunnia: Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences (Uli Campus).

  • Mrs. Ifeoma Kakulu: Principal Assistant Registrar and former Examination Officer for the Faculty of Law.

Institutional Commitment to Ethical Standards

The dismissal of such high-ranking academics and administrative personnel sends a powerful message across the Nigerian tertiary education landscape. The university administration emphasized that these actions were not taken lightly but were the result of a thorough investigation into widespread complaints regarding the exploitation of students.

"The council reaffirmed its stance on discipline and integrity, warning that actions tarnishing the university’s reputation would face severe consequences," the official statement read. This action is part of the administration's "Now University and of the Future" vision, which prioritizes a safe, accountable, and forward-thinking academic environment.

Restoring Public Confidence

The administration, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, has been actively working to reposition the university as a center of excellence. By weeding out individuals who abuse their positions of authority, the university aims to:

  1. Safeguard Students: Create an environment where students can pursue their academic goals without fear of intimidation or exploitation.

  2. Uphold Academic Standards: Ensure that grades and academic progress are based on merit rather than financial or sexual transactions.

  3. Enhance Institutional Reputation: Strengthen the value of a COOU degree by ensuring it is earned through legitimate effort and professional guidance.

A Broader Movement for Accountability

This dismissal follows a series of proactive measures by the COOU leadership to engage with parents, students, and other stakeholders to foster character development. The university has recently inaugurated its 8th Governing Council, which has been charged by the Visitor to the University and Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to drive excellence and innovation while maintaining zero tolerance for unethical conduct.

For the COOU community, this is viewed as a necessary "cleaning house" operation. By addressing these deep-seated issues head-on, the institution is demonstrating that it is prepared to sacrifice its own senior personnel to preserve the trust of its students and the credibility of its academic programs. This move sets a standard for accountability that other institutions across Nigeria are increasingly expected to emulate in their quest to improve the quality and moral standing of the country’s higher education system.