Freedom of Speech Is Not a Licence for Recklessness COOU VC, Prof Omenugha Cautions Students

The Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University COOU Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha has urged students to exercise restraint and responsibility in their use of free speech warning that while expression remains a fundamental right it must not be abused in ways that damage individuals or institutions.

She made the remarks on Thursday April 23 2026 during the Interdenominational Service held at the ETF Auditorium Igbariam Campus as part of activities marking the universitys 16th Convocation Week

Addressing students at the event the Vice Chancellor acknowledged that freedom of speech is a basic human right which the university fully respects however she drew a clear line between the right to speak and the responsibility that must guide how that right is exercised.

She stressed that in an era dominated by social media careless statements can spread rapidly and cause unintended consequences before corrections can be made adding that university students especially those bearing the legacy of Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu are expected to uphold higher standards of conduct.

Prof Omenugha also raised concern over the growing trend of false and misleading statements about the university particularly on digital platforms describing such actions as cyberbullying rather than legitimate expression of opinion.

According to her spreading misinformation about the institution does not constitute responsible free speech but instead undermines the university community misleads the public and harms the reputation of all stakeholders involved.

She warned that anyone found culpable of deliberately circulating false information would face appropriate legal consequences noting that the university would not tolerate actions capable of destabilizing its image or operations.

Despite the strong caution the Vice Chancellor maintained a conciliatory tone reaffirming her administration’s belief in the potential and character of COOU students whom she described as the pride of the institution.

She encouraged them to use their voices constructively to project the university positively and to always remember that their words and actions reflect not only on themselves but on the institution they represent.

The address ended with a renewed call for responsible communication mutual respect and a stronger commitment to protecting the integrity of the university community.