Paul University Suspends Lecturer Over Sexual Misconduct Claims

The management of Paul University in Awka, Anambra State has suspended one of its lecturers, Cornelius Eze, due to allegations of serious sexual misconduct.

Paul University is owned by the Anglican Church in Anambra State.

The university's spokesperson, Godsplan Onukwufor, shared this news in a statement on Friday.

Mr Onukwufor said the allegation against Mr Eze, who teaches practical biology in the university’s faculty of natural and applied sciences, was reported on 14 July.

He mentioned that there was growing tension among students regarding the incident. To prevent any unrest, the university management “immediately intervened and invited the relevant security agency to take over the matter.”

“As a preliminary administrative measure and without prejudice to ongoing investigations, the university management has placed the staff on indefinite suspension. This will continue until the internal disciplinary process and any investigations by law enforcement are completed,” he said.

Besides being a lecturer, Mr Eze is also an Anglican priest in Anambra State.

Mr Onukwufor emphasized that the university is founded on principles of integrity, discipline, moral uprightness, and respect for human dignity.

He stated that the university does not support any form of sexual misconduct, including harassment by staff or students.

“Any member of staff or student found guilty of violating the University’s rules or Nigerian law will face appropriate consequences,” he added.

The spokesperson highlighted that the university management understands the emotional and psychological effects this incident may have on students and staff members.

“Consequently, arrangements are being made to provide proper counselling and support for the student(s) involved and any other affected members of the university community,” he said.

He assured parents, students, staff, and the public of the university’s commitment to keeping a safe and morally sound learning environment where everyone is treated with respect.

“The university remains committed to ensuring that justice is served fairly, transparently, and according to the law.”

Earlier this week, a viral video appeared on social media, showing a lecturer allegedly caught having a sexual encounter in his office with an unidentified student.

In the clip, seen by this newspaper, the lecturer reportedly escaped through a window when angry students entered his office.

The video showed a man in shorts trying to hide in a bush near the office.

There were rumors that the incident took place at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, also known as UNIZIK.

But the UNIZIK spokesperson, Aloysius Attah, denied these claims, insisting that the lecturer is not part of their staff.

Later, Paul University Awka shared a photo of Mr Eze and confirmed that he is indeed a member of their staff.