The University of Calabar, UNICAL, has dismissed eight members of staff and sanctioned another, including a professor and two academic doctors, following findings of various acts of misconduct, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to discipline and accountability.
According to The Lumine News, the decisions were approved at the University’s 174th Governing Council meeting on July 3, 2026, after the Council considered disciplinary reports presented before it. The sanctions were contained in a memo signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr (Mrs) Icha Chukwuka.
Among those dismissed is Professor Emilia Oyira of the Department of Nursing Science, who was found culpable of alleged examination misconduct.
Four other staff members were dismissed for alleged absence from duty and abandonment of their responsibilities. They 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 the Department of Internal Medicine, and Mrs Okoi Nyesam Eni of the Clinical Medical Hostel.
Also dismissed is Mr Joseph Edet Okon of the Works Department over the alleged vandalisation and theft of armoured cables. Mr Eworo Valentine Ibor of the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry was dismissed for the alleged falsification and alteration of examination results.
In a separate case, Mr Emmanuel Adariku of the Alumni Relations Office was dismissed for the alleged unauthorised withdrawal of funds from the Friends of Malabor/Alumni Trust Funds account.
Meanwhile, Dr Mathias Agba of the Department of Nursing Science received disciplinary sanctions rather than dismissal. The Governing Council delayed his promotion by two promotional years and ordered the forfeiture of 50 per cent of his withheld salary after finding him negligent in connection with an alleged examination misconduct case.
The University Management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Offiong E. Offiong, reiterated its commitment to maintaining high ethical standards, stressing that the institution has zero tolerance for unethical practices. Management stated that the disciplinary measures reflect its determination to reposition the University of Calabar on a foundation of integrity, accountability, and excellence in service delivery.
