University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Refutes Vanguard Report on Matriculation Gown Fee

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has officially responded to a misleading report published by Vanguard newspaper on January 28, 2026, titled “Tension in UNICROSS as VC Insists on N10,000 for Matriculation Gown.”

The University categorically rejects the claims made in the report.

While members of the Joint Action Congress (JAC) are observing a sit-at-home action due to delayed December 2025 salaries, there is no tension linked to any alleged matriculation gown fee. The postponement of the 24th Matriculation Ceremony is entirely due to the ongoing JAC protest, as outlined in Circular No. 504, issued January 26, 2026, and signed by University Registrar, Dr. Catherine Osai.

The Vanguard report falsely alleges that Vice Chancellor Prof. Francisca Bassey unilaterally fixed the rental cost of academic gowns at N10,000. UNICROSS confirms this is false and misleading. All administrative and financial decisions are made through established institutional procedures and collective structures. The reported N10,000 figure was an administrative error; the correct matriculation fee is N7,000, covering the bank service charges and a full-colour matriculation brochure. Records show some students had previously paid N5,500, and no student has paid N10,000.

Furthermore, claims of a 100% increase in school fees, extortion, or inflammatory statements attributed to unnamed students are unverified and speculative. The University also denies the report’s attribution to the Registrar regarding the cause of the postponement; no written or verbal record exists supporting these statements.

UNICROSS demands an immediate correction and retraction from Vanguard newspaper concerning the false claims about the Vice Chancellor and Registrar. Should this not occur, the University will pursue all available legal remedies.

This statement underscores UNICROSS’s commitment to transparent administration and accurate public communication.