Abia State Special Investigations Committee Engages ABSU Management, Staff Over Institutional Reforms

The Abia State Special Investigations Committee has held an interactive meeting with the Management of Abia State University (ABSU), Deans, Heads of Departments (HODs), Directors and other academic staff as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged infractions within the institution.

The meeting, held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at the University's Senate Chamber, forms part of the Committee's mandate to assess institutional practices and recommend measures to strengthen governance and academic standards.

During a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, the Chairman of the Committee and Chief of Staff to the Governor of Abia State, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, said the assignment aligns with Governor Alex Otti's vision of transforming ABSU into a globally competitive institution through transparency, accountability and adherence to best practices.

He commended the University Management for the progress recorded under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor and noted that the Abia State Government has consistently prioritised education, allocating 20 per cent of the state budget to the sector for three consecutive years.

Pastor Ajagba appealed for the cooperation of the University's Management and staff, stressing that the Committee's findings would contribute to reforms aimed at repositioning ABSU for greater excellence.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti and members of the Committee for their commitment to improving the institution. He noted that institutional reforms are a continuous process and assured the Committee of the University's full support throughout the exercise.

At the interactive session, members of the Committee emphasised that the investigation was strictly a fact-finding exercise and not intended to victimise any individual. Staff members were encouraged to make honest contributions to assist the Committee in producing a comprehensive report.

Discussions focused on several critical areas, including compliance with the staff code of conduct and academic regulations, result processing and management, the sale of books and handouts, criteria for the appointment of Heads of Departments, remarking of examination scripts, printing of examination question papers, examination security, examination malpractice, support staff matters, extortion and other related issues affecting the University.

Participants were given the opportunity to express their views and make recommendations on the issues raised before the Committee proceeded to some departments for further investigations.

The meeting was attended by members of the University Management, Deans, Heads of Departments, Directors and other academic staff.

Members of the Abia State Special Investigations Committee include:

• Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Chief of Staff to the Governor – Chairman
• Mr. Dodoh Okafor – Secretary
• Professor Idowu Eluwa, Provost, ASCETA – Member
• Professor Lawrence Idemudia – Member
• Hon. Chinedu Okeke, Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area – Member
• Mr. Emmanuel (as listed in the statement).