UNICROSS ALLEGES POLITICIAN INCITED STUDENT PROTEST, WARNS OF DEGREE WITHDRAWAL

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By:Tajudeen Aminat

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has accused former Special Adviser on Education to ex-Governor Ben Ayade, Mr. Castro Ezama, of inciting Monday’s violent student protest in Calabar.

The protest reportedly saw hundreds of students attack the General Hospital, Calabar, over alleged poor medical and welfare treatment of six colleagues who survived a crash on the Calabar–Itu Federal Highway, where four students died.

The university alleged that Ezama used social media posts to encourage staff and students against the institution, spreading messages it described as divisive and aimed at creating tension between students and management.

In a letter dated May 5, 2026, signed by Dr. Catherine Ndifon Osal, Registrar and Secretary to the University Council, and addressed to Ezama, a former student leader, the institution warned that his degree could be withdrawn.

The university stated that all certificates issued are based on both character and learning, adding that it reserves the right to revoke any award if a graduate’s conduct is found to contradict those standards.

It further accused Ezama of posting videos and messages on Facebook urging staff and students to disregard official procedures and confront management outside established grievance channels.

UNICROSS said such actions undermined peace, order, and the academic environment necessary for effective teaching and learning.

The institution ordered Ezama to delete all alleged inciting posts and desist from further engagement of that nature with staff and students.

He was also directed to issue a public apology to the Vice Chancellor on the same platforms, acknowledging the alleged misconduct.

The university gave him seven days to comply, warning that failure to do so would lead to further action.