PAUL UNIVERSITY SUSPENDS ANGLICAN PRIEST OVER ALLEGED SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

Read Time:1 Minute, 55 Second

By; Sunmola Ganiyat

Paul University, Awka, has suspended an academic staff member, Ven. Cornelius C. Eze, an Anglican priest, over allegations of serious sexual misconduct and has launched an internal investigation into the matter.

Eze, who serves as a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, was placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of the university’s disciplinary process and investigations by relevant law enforcement agencies.

The suspension was announced in a statement dated July 17, 2026, and signed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Rev. Godisplan Onukwufor.

According to the university, the allegations were brought to its attention on Tuesday, July 14, prompting management to immediately invite security agencies to intervene in order to prevent a breakdown of law and order following reported tensions among students.

The institution said the suspension is an administrative measure taken without prejudice to the outcome of the ongoing investigations.

Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media, whose authenticity has not been independently verified, allegedly shows the suspended staff member dressed only in boxer shorts and apparently fleeing from his office amid a commotion.

The footage has been widely shared online, accompanied by claims that he was attempting to escape after being allegedly caught in a compromising situation by students and members of the university community.

However, the university’s statement did not comment on the circulating video or the specific circumstances surrounding the incident.

Paul University reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, immoral behaviour, abuse of office and any conduct capable of endangering the safety, dignity or welfare of students and staff.

The institution stressed that anyone found guilty of violating its regulations or the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with due process.

The university also acknowledged the emotional and psychological impact of the allegations, revealing that counselling and therapeutic support would be provided for the affected student(s) and other members of the university community.

Management urged the public to avoid speculation, misinformation and actions capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigations, assuring parents, students and staff of its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and morally sound learning environment.

The university added that further updates would be provided as investigations progress and when it is appropriate to do so.