The Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, Prof. Kate Omenugha, has defended the recent dismissal of five academic staff members, insisting that the action was based strictly on due process and not personal or political considerations.
Speaking during a mid-term media briefing at the university’s Igbariam campus, Prof. Omenugha dismissed allegations that one of the affected lecturers was removed because he contested the university’s vice-chancellorship position against her.
She described the claims as false and misleading, maintaining that the Governing Council acted on the recommendations of a disciplinary panel after following all laid-down procedures.
The dismissed lecturers were sanctioned over allegations ranging from sexual misconduct and extortion to intimidation, ethical violations and gross professional negligence.
Addressing the dismissal of Prof. Chike Osegbue, the Vice-Chancellor explained that the decision was unrelated to the vice-chancellorship contest but stemmed from alleged dereliction of duty.
According to her, the lecturer failed to teach assigned postgraduate students despite repeated directives and allegedly ignored official queries issued by both his Head of Department and the university’s Registrar.
She further stated that although he was invited to appear before the disciplinary panel investigating the matter, he failed to honour the invitation before the panel submitted its recommendations to the Governing Council.
Prof. Omenugha disclosed that despite approving the dismissal, the Governing Council still granted the affected lecturer a 30-day window to appeal the decision.
Rejecting allegations of victimisation, she noted that other academics who contested the vice-chancellorship alongside her are still serving in strategic positions within the university.
“If this was about victimisation, those who contested the position with me would not still be working with this administration,” she said.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted her academic and administrative credentials, stating that her appointment was based on merit, extensive leadership experience and a distinguished record in higher education administration.
She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to restoring discipline, accountability and academic excellence within the institution, stressing that staff misconduct would not be tolerated.
“Nobody can vilify me for sacking corrupt lecturers and those accused of sexually exploiting students. We are committed to protecting students and sanitising the university system,” she said.
Prof. Omenugha added that the university’s Alumni Association had commended the ongoing reforms, describing the support as encouragement to continue strengthening the institution.
She maintained that every disciplinary action taken by the university follows established procedures and is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the institution rather than settling personal scores.
As part of the briefing, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Harrison Madubueze, conducted journalists on a tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across the campus, showcasing efforts to improve teaching, learning and the overall academic environment.
