MOUAU Reaffirms Integrity: Employment Not for Sale, Warns Against Racketeers

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has issued a strong statement clarifying that employment opportunities at the institution are not for sale, following the advertisement of teaching/academic and non-teaching staff positions in The Guardian and Punch newspapers on Friday, October 10, 2025.

The university, through a dedicated online application portal, invited suitably qualified candidates to apply, sparking significant public interest as the process went live.

Since the portal’s activation, some individuals have contacted university insiders seeking assistance or inquiring about potential costs to secure jobs, raising concerns about employment racketeering. Chief Public Relations Officer Ubadire Agua, Ph.D, on October 13, 2025, warned the public to beware of fraudsters exploiting this opportunity, emphasizing that no employment slots are reserved for any individual or group, countering rumors before they gain traction.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe has reiterated his stance against soliciting financial or any form of gratification, aligning with his impeccable record in public service. The university has put the public on alert to resist and report anyone posing as an agent of the Vice-Chancellor or management team demanding inducements, with stern warnings that such offenders, including job seekers offering bribes, will face arrest and prosecution for corruption.

Additionally, MOUAU has vowed to impose severe disciplinary actions on any staff found undermining the Vice-Chancellor’s reputation or the university’s integrity during this process. This proactive stance, encapsulated in the phrase “to be forewarned is to be forearmed,” aims to protect the institution’s credibility and ensure a fair recruitment process for all applicants.