Paul University, Awka, has suspended an academic support staff member, Ven. Cornelius C. Eze, an Anglican priest, over allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student.
The development also appears to validate an earlier clarification by Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, which denied social media claims that those involved in the incident were members of its staff and student population.
UNIZIK, in a statement issued through its Public Relations Department, had stated that neither the staff member nor the student linked to the incident was affiliated with the institution.
Paul University, however, confirmed that the accused staff member is one of its employees and announced that both an internal disciplinary process and a police investigation are underway.
The institution said Ven. Eze, who serves as a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, has been placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of the investigations.
The suspension was announced in a statement dated July 17, 2026, and signed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Rev. Godisplan Onukwufor.
According to the university, management became aware of the allegations on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, and immediately invited security agencies to intervene following tensions on campus to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
It described the suspension as an administrative measure taken without prejudice to the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings or the ongoing police investigation.
A video circulating on social media, whose authenticity SaharaReporters has not independently verified, allegedly shows the suspended staff member wearing only boxer shorts and apparently fleeing from his office amid a commotion.
The footage has been widely shared online alongside claims that he was caught in a compromising situation by students and other members of the university community. However, Paul University did not comment on the authenticity of the video or the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.
Reaffirming its position on staff conduct, the university said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, abuse of office, immoral behaviour and any act capable of endangering the safety, dignity or welfare of students and staff.
It added that any individual found culpable after due process would face disciplinary action in accordance with the university’s regulations and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The university also disclosed that counselling and psychological support would be provided to the affected student or students, as well as other members of the university community who may require assistance.
While urging members of the public to refrain from speculation and the spread of unverified information, the institution assured parents, guardians, students and staff of its commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.
It added that further updates would be provided as investigations progress.
