Paul University, Awka, has placed one of its staff members, Ven. Cornelius C. Eze, on indefinite suspension following allegations of serious misconduct linked to a viral incident that has attracted widespread public attention.
The university announced the disciplinary action in a statement issued on Friday by its Public Relations Officer, Rev’d Godsplan Onukwufor, saying the suspension will remain in force while internal disciplinary proceedings and investigations by law enforcement agencies continue
The development comes a day after Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, distanced itself from the viral video, dismissing social media claims that the individual involved was one of its lecturers or that the incident occurred on its campus.
Paul University has now confirmed that the man seen in the video is Ven. Cornelius C. Eze, a Practical Biology Technologist in the institution’s Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences.
According to the university, management became aware of the allegations on Tuesday, July 14, and immediately initiated appropriate steps to address the matter.
The institution stated that security agencies were invited to intervene after tensions among students heightened over the incident, a move it said was necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
Explaining the decision to suspend the staff member, the university said:
“As a preliminary administrative measure and without prejudice to the outcome of ongoing investigations, the university management has placed the staff on indefinite suspension pending the conclusion of both the internal disciplinary process and any investigations being conducted by the appropriate law enforcement authorities.”
The university reiterated that it is guided by the values of integrity, discipline, moral uprightness, and respect for the dignity of every individual as a faith-based institution.
It also emphasised that it maintains zero tolerance for sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, immoral behaviour, abuse of office and any conduct capable of threatening the safety, dignity or welfare of members of its community.
According to the statement, any staff member or student found to have violated the institution’s regulations or the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will face appropriate sanctions through due process.
Paul University further disclosed that counselling and psychological support would be provided for the affected student or students, as well as any other members of the university community impacted by the incident.
The management appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculating on the matter while investigations remain ongoing. It also assured parents, students and other stakeholders that the case would be handled fairly, transparently and in accordance with the law.
The university reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and morally sound learning environment where the rights, dignity and welfare of every member of the academic community are protected.
