UNN Reacts to Allegations of Extortion by Department of Political Science HoD

The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) in Enugu State has responded to allegations of staff extorting postgraduate students within its Department of Political Science.

Rufai Oseni, a prominent anchor at Arise TV and a doctoral candidate in the department, brought the issue to light. On Tuesday, Oseni posted on his X account, accusing lecturers, particularly the department head and the postgraduate programme coordinator, of demanding payments ranging from N35,000 to N500,000 from students. He claimed the extortion was facilitated through class representatives who reported back to the lecturers.

In a swift reaction, UNN’s spokesperson, Okwun Omeaku, released a statement assuring that the university would thoroughly investigate the claims. Omeaku emphasized that UNN has a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of extortion, maintaining strict ethical standards for both staff and students. The institution has urged students to come forward with evidence to aid in identifying those responsible.

“The UNN management will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations of extortion in our Department of Political Science,” Omeaku stated. “We urge the affected students to cooperate with the process by providing evidence that will aid in identifying the culprits.”

Omeaku reiterated the university’s commitment to protecting its students from “a few bad eggs” within the institution. He encouraged students to report grievances through official university channels to ensure their complaints are addressed appropriately.

This scandal follows closely on the heels of another incident in April 2024, when a lecturer, Mfonobong Udoudom, from the School of General Studies Programme Unit, was indefinitely suspended after being accused of attempting to sexually molest a female student.

UNN’s management is keen to uphold its reputation by addressing these serious allegations promptly and effectively.