UNN VC Under Pressure to Resign Amid Certificate Controversy
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Ortuanya, is facing growing public pressure to step down after allegations arose regarding his handling of academic records in the high-profile certificate dispute involving former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji.
Quick Insight:
Civil society groups insist that impartial investigation can only happen if Prof. Ortuanya steps aside, so that the ongoing federal panel of inquiry can proceed without influence or conflict.
1. The Allegation & Public Outcry
• The pressure stems from accusations that the Vice-Chancellor personally released academic records related to Uche Nnaji’s degree status, bypassing the university registrar’s statutory role.
• The controversy follows earlier disputes over whether the former minister actually graduated and whether the documents submitted during his screening were authentic.
• Critics argue that Prof. Ortuanya’s actions cast doubt on due process and the integrity of the institution’s academic records.
2. Calls for Suspension & Investigation
• A coalition of civil society supporters has demanded the Vice-Chancellor step down or be suspended while a federal Ministry of Education investigative panel conducts a thorough inquiry.
• The argument is that suspension will ensure that there’s no interference, bias, intimidation, or manipulation of evidence during the probe.
• Supporters of the investigative efforts commend the establishment of the panel, but stress that transparency and fairness are crucial to restoring confidence.
3. Implications for Institutional Integrity
• Opponents to the Vice-Chancellor’s continued leadership argue that mishandling of academic records, especially in such a high-profile situation, could damage UNN’s reputation and erode trust in its governance.
• They warn that failure to address the controversy decisively could set a negative precedent for how academic legitimacy and record-keeping are treated in Nigerian universities.
• Many see the situation as a test of both institutional accountability and adherence to due process in higher education governance.
Final Thoughts
The unfolding controversy at UNN highlights longstanding concerns about transparency, leadership accountability, and institutional integrity within Nigeria’s higher education sector. As calls grow louder for leadership changes and thorough investigation, all eyes are on how the Ministry of Education’s panel handles the issue — and what it means for future governance of universities.
Tip: Academic integrity and proper record keeping are foundational to trust in educational institutions. Situations like this underscore why clear, fair processes matter — for students, staff, and the public.
