The Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, located in Edo State, has taken decisive action by dismissing 13 academic and non-academic staff members due to their involvement in a range of offenses.
The individuals faced allegations such as falsified age, fraud, gross misconduct, extortion, and sexual harassment, resulting in their termination.
The decision was made based on the findings of the University Staff Disciplinary Committee, which thoroughly investigated the cases and found the accused individuals guilty.
On Monday in Benin City, the acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Asomwan Adagbonyin, presented the committee’s report to Chairman Andrew Olotu and the members of the AAU Special Intervention Team. Prof. Adagbonyin emphasized that the affected staff members belonged to various departments, including the Faculty of Basic Medical Science, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Nursing Department, Engineering Department, Faculty of Law, and Political Science, among others.
Regarding the severity of the offenses committed, the disciplinary committee recommended that the criminal aspects of the misconduct be reported to the appropriate security operatives.
One lecturer, who was found guilty of extorting students, was recommended for dismissal. The lecturer had reportedly coerced students into paying amounts of N32,000 and N52,000.
In another case, a lecturer was implicated in a sexual harassment incident and was subsequently dismissed. Although the lecturer initially claimed to have made advances, he resorted to pleading for forgiveness at the victim’s church.
The university has taken measures to protect the victim and has assigned her to another lecturer for her studies.
Prof. Adagbonyin further revealed that out of the 209 disciplinary cases received, the University Staff Disciplinary Committee has concluded investigations on 132 cases, while 77 cases are still pending, awaiting resolution and appropriate action.