ABSU Dismisses Extortion Allegations, Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance For Corruption

The Management of Abia State University, Uturu, has dismissed a publication by Sahara Reporters, alleging extortion of various sums of money from students by some lecturers in the Mass Communication and Engineering Departments of the University to “sort” for their examinations and tests.

The institution in a statement on Thursday by Chijoke Nwogu, the public relation officer described the allegation as a cheap blackmail aimed at tarnishing the image of the University and the State noting that as a professional and supposedly unbiased news medium, Sahara Reporters should have provided more concrete evidence that could lead to the identification and exposure of those allegedly involved in such heinous offences, rather than resorting to hearsay.

The statement further informed that, the administration of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, since assuming office, has taken a firm and punitive stance against all forms of corruption, including extortion, examination malpractice, and other vices associated with the University system.

“The administration has maintained a zero-tolerance policy, and any staff found guilty after due investigation has been sanctioned appropriately in line with the University’s rules and regulations.

“The said publication is therefore viewed as a form of cheap blackmail aimed at tarnishing the image of the University and the State, especially coming on the heels of a highly successful Convocation ceremony that attracted widespread commendation.

“The activities of the ownership of Sahara reporters against the state and its agencies in this regard is public knowledge”.

The school management however, assured the public of its relentless commitment to uphold integrity by strengthening existing measures across all departments to identify, expose, and sanction any lecturer or staff found involved in extortion or any related misconduct, as it has consistently done.

The statement also encouraged Students to report any such incidents to the appropriate authorities.

“All reports will be treated with strict confidentiality, and whistleblowers will be adequately protected and rewarded, rather than becoming accomplices to such nefarious acts”.