Abia Group Threatens University Occupation Over Delayed Professorial Promotion
Otamere Gladness UMUDIKE, Nigeria – A pressure group, Old Bende Young Professionals, threatens to occupy the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, over the delayed promotion of academic Dr Philips Nto, escalating tensions within the institution.
The group alleges that Dr Nto’s promotion to professor, due in 2021, remains deliberately stalled by the university’s Governing Council Chairman, Fidelis Edeh, describing the delay as victimisation and injustice.
In a statement signed by Chairman Chima Ogbonna and Secretary Chief Dike Okwara, the group accuses the council leadership of bias.
“This is a collective insult to Abia State. Our son is being punished while others, including juniors, were promoted,” the statement says.
The group issues an ultimatum demanding the council approve or reject the promotion at its next meeting or face mass protests. “We are prepared for the mother of all protests to occupy MOUAU,” it warns.
Dr Nto previously appeals to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Education, alleging his promotion delay stems from refusing to influence the 2023 Enugu governorship election.
Reacting, Council Chairman Fidelis Edeh dismisses the claims.
“Council does not release promotions. It only approves recommendations presented by the promotions committee,” he says, declining further comment.
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