The management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, has demoted 24 professors following petitions some aggrieved persons sent to the minister of education.

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture’s spokesperson, Adamma Nwachukwu, confirmed that 24  professors have been demoted. Nwachukwu said:

“Following the outcome of the process, council directed that affected persons should revert to their proper placement.” She, however, declined to offer other details of the action, saying “the university is not exactly interested in blowing this matter out of proportion. It is an internal procedure and was not targeted at demoting or promoting anybody, but rather at ensuring proper placement of all affected staff and not just Professors.”

From documents sent to the news platform, Alphonsus Odo Ovute of the Department of Science Education; Melody Ndidi Modebelu of the Department of Educational Management; Gideon Ahamefula Emerole of the Department of Business Administration; Ogwo Patrick Agwu of the Department of Environmental Management and Technology; Aso Vincent Ele of the Department of Mathematics and Joy Chinwe Obunadike of the Department of Adult and Continuing Education were among the Professors demoted to Senior Lecturers.

It was further gathered that the University authorities made new demands from the affected lecturers, following the outcome of an investigative panel.

Prof. Odo Ovute is said to have been asked to provide his First School Leaving and NYSC certificates, as well as explain fully, his career activities between the year 2010 and 2012 with evidence.