By Abasi Ita
The University of Calabar has placed an admission officer under disciplinary action over alleged irregularities linked to over admission, as the institution intensifies efforts to curb certificate fraud and restore integrity to its processes.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Offiong Offiong, disclosed this on Thursday while briefing journalists ahead of the university’s 38th convocation ceremony. He said the administration had reconstituted the Central Admissions Committee as part of measures to sanitise the admission process and address longstanding concerns.
According to him, the officer under whose supervision the infractions occurred is currently facing disciplinary proceedings.
He cautioned against undue pressure on the university to exceed its admission quota, especially in highly competitive programmes.
“Please, when you are told there is no space in Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy or Nursing, do not insist. We will not engage in over admission,” he said.
On certificate fraud, the Vice Chancellor raised concerns over a growing network involved in producing fake certificates using the university’s name. He revealed that some suspects forge signatures of past registrars and vice chancellors to legitimise the documents.
“We are aware of these illegal activities involving certificates printed in computer centres. The perpetrators are using the name of the university and attempting to forge official signatures,” he said.
He added that investigations were ongoing and that those involved would be apprehended and exposed.
Professor Offiong also urged members of the public and the media to report individuals demanding bribes in exchange for admission or employment.
“Anyone who solicits or offers financial inducement for admission or jobs is culpable. Such acts will not be tolerated,” he warned.
He further noted that the university is addressing infrastructure challenges, advancing digital record systems and strengthening institutional discipline as part of broader reforms aimed at repositioning the institution.