In a development that has sent shockwaves through the University of Calabar (UNICAL) community, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Cyril Ndifon, has been suspended by the university’s management over alleged acts that contravene the institution’s laws and policies.
This suspension follows a series of protests by law students who accused the dean of engaging in sexual harassment. It is not the first time that such allegations have been raised against Prof. Ndifon. In 2015, he faced a similar suspension, but managed to clear his name through a legal process.
In a statement released by the University Registrar, Mr. Gabriel Egbe, the suspension is effective from August 17, 2023. The decision was prompted by Prof. Ndifon’s response to a query from the University Management, which failed to satisfy the Vice Chancellor.
The statement reads, “Following our communication dated August 14, 2023, regarding your alleged violation of the university’s laws and policies, and your subsequent response on August 16, 2023, the Vice-Chancellor has reviewed your explanations and found them unsatisfactory. Consequently, she has instructed your removal from the position of Dean, Faculty of Law, and your suspension from official duties. A panel will be established to investigate these allegations.”
Prof. Ndifon is required to hand over all university property under his possession, as well as relinquish all official responsibilities to the Sub-Dean of the Faculty. He is also prohibited from entering the university premises, except when summoned by the investigation panel.
The suspension of Prof. Ndifon has elicited a wide range of reactions from students, faculty, and stakeholders within the university. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the allegations and the subsequent actions taken by the university administration.
Advertisement