The Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has dismissed media reports alleging turmoil and rising tension within the institution, describing them as false, misleading and politically motivated.
Reacting to a publication credited to one Okey Ikeogu and other writers, the University’s Public Relations Officer, Dr Ubadire Agua, said the report suggesting that the Council Chairman was seeking revenge against the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, over the outcome of the 2023 Enugu governorship election, was baseless.
In a statement, Dr Agua stated emphatically that there was no tension or turmoil in the University, noting that academic, administrative and ceremonial activities have continued smoothly across the institution.
He confirmed that the ongoing recruitment process of the University, as approved by the Federal Government, remains uninterrupted, disclosing that the Institution had received over 17,000 applications for various advertised positions and is currently shortlisting qualified candidates.
Debunking the rumor further, Agua explained that the University recently held its 32nd Matriculation Ceremony on November 28, 2025, with an impressive turnout of staff, students, and parents, in what he described as a peaceful environment that reflects the leadership style of the Vice-Chancellor.
While addressing concerns about the 13th Convocation Ceremony, the PRO confirmed that the Vice-Chancellor convened an emergency Senate meeting on December 4 to brief members on the Governing Council Chairman’s directive to temporarily pause preparations until the Council meets to consider the event’s budget and fix new dates.
He clarified that the Senate being the statutory academic authority, had earlier approved December 10–13 for the Convocation and set up the University Ceremonials Committee, stressing that relevant communications with government offices and the Chancellor were already underway before the directive came.
On staff promotion, he explained that all appraisal meetings at departmental, college and university levels have held regularly under Prof. Iwe’s administration, and no qualified staff member has been denied or delayed promotion.
He further described the Vice-Chancellor as a respected academic and Christian leader, whose national service during the 2023 Enugu gubernatorial election was widely commended for fairness and adherence to due process.
The University warned media practitioners to verify information before publication and reiterated that only the Head of the Public Relations Unit is authorised to speak on behalf of the institution.
Dr Agua also appealed to politicians and fifth columnists to stop attempting to stir controversy around the University, urging them to allow peace to reign.
“MOUAU will continue to rise in peace and in its peace, we shall all find our peace”, he said.
