UNN Launches Investigation into Extortion Allegations in Political Science Department

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has announced an investigation into allegations of extortion within its Department of Political Science. This decision follows a viral social media post by popular TV presenter Rufai Oseni, who relayed a complaint from a PhD student.

The complaint detailed a systematic extortion scheme involving the collection of significant sums of money from postgraduate students. The allegations include demands for ₦100,000 from PhD students purportedly to fund the construction of a toilet in the Head of Department’s (HOD) office, ₦35,000 for various departmental fees, ₦45,000 for each seminar presentation, and up to ₦500,000 to secure thesis topics.

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In response, UNN spokesman Okwun Omeaku confirmed that the university’s management is aware of the accusations and will conduct a thorough investigation. He urged affected students to come forward with evidence to help identify those responsible.

“The UNN management will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations of extortion in our Department of Political Science. We urge the affected students to cooperate with the process by providing evidence that will aid in identifying the culprits,” Omeaku said.

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Omeaku emphasized that UNN maintains strict ethical standards and prohibits any form of extortion at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He assured that the university is committed to addressing any illicit activities involving its staff.

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He also clarified that all tuition and examination fees for postgraduate students are to be paid directly into the University’s Treasury Single Account (TSA), with official receipts issued by the Bursary section of the College of Postgraduate Studies.

“However, we encourage our students to first report their grievances to the university administration through the appropriate communication channels established to safeguard the complainant,” Omeaku added.

The university’s dedication to ethical practices and transparency aims to protect students and maintain the integrity of its academic programs.

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