UNICAL cracks down on staff misconduct, dismisses eight, sanctions another

By Benedicta Aboh

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has dismissed eight members of staff and sanctioned another following allegations ranging from examination malpractice and financial misconduct to duty abandonment and vandalism.

The disciplinary measures were approved at the university's 174th Governing Council meeting after members considered reports on various misconduct cases.

According to a memo signed by the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Dr. (Mrs.) Icha Chukwuka, the decisions followed a thorough review of disciplinary cases brought before the Council.

Among those dismissed is Prof. Emilia Oyira of the Department of Nursing Science, who was found culpable in an examination misconduct case.

Also affected are Mr. Ukachukwu Echezunachi Darlington of the Department of Chemical Pathology, Mrs. Akinrinade Opayemi Ogunluyi of the Department of Microbiology, Dr. Arum Priscilia Nchekwube of Internal Medicine, and Mrs. Okoi Nyesam Eni of the Clinical Medical Hostel, all dismissed for absence from duty and abandonment of their official responsibilities.

The Council also approved the dismissal of Mr. Joseph Edet Okon of the Works Department over allegations of vandalising and removing armoured cables, while Mr. Eworo Valentine Ibor of the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry was dismissed for allegedly falsifying and altering examination results.

In a related development, Mr. Emmanuel Adariku of the Alumni Relations Office lost his appointment over the alleged unauthorised withdrawal of funds from the Friends of Malabor/Alumni Trust Funds account.

The Council further imposed a two-year promotion delay on Dr. Mathias Agba of the Department of Nursing Science and directed the forfeiture of 50 per cent of his withheld salary over negligence connected to an examination misconduct case.

Reaffirming the institution's stance, the Registrar said the university maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward unethical conduct. She added that the administration of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, remains committed to repositioning the institution on the principles of integrity, accountability and excellence in service delivery.

The university's Public Relations Unit said the disciplinary actions were taken in line with due process after the Governing Council considered and adopted the recommendations contained in the disciplinary reports.