By Onukak Wisdom
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has debunked rumors circulating on social media about the purported sacking of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Florence Banku Obi.
In a statement on late Thursday Signed by Comrade John B. Ogar, Head of Media, Office of the Vice-Chancellor, the university described the rumors as “baseless and unfounded”, orchestrated by “mischief makers and ignoramuses”.
According to the statement, Prof. Obi is currently on approved leave and has not been removed from her position. The university assured the public that the Vice-Chancellor’s leave has not created a vacuum, as she handed over to Prof. Peter Okafor, one of her Deputy Vice-Chancellors, to act in her absence.
The statement reads in parts:” The Office of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar has dispel the recent rumors regarding the purported sacking of Prof. Florence Banku Obi, our esteemed Vice-Chancellor.
“We categorically state that these speculations are entirely baseless and unfounded as they are orchestrated by mischief makers and ignoramous.
Prof. Obi who is currently on approved leave remains the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar.
“We urge the public to disregard these rumors and advise those jostling to take over from her to rather concern themselves with how they can fit into the big shoes she will be leaving in UNICAL rather than looking for ways to distract and discredit her.”
The university further expressed confidence in Prof. Obi’s leadership and commitment to excellence, saying she will continue to lead the institution towards greater heights upon her return.
The rumor about Prof. Obi’s sacking has been circulating on social media for days, causing anxiety among students, staff, and alumni of the university.
