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CSOs Demand Urgent Action as UNICAL Dentistry Crisis Threatens Future of 300 Students
The Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) and other allied civil society organizations have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the lingering crisis at the University of Calabar’s Faculty of Dentistry, where over 300 students face academic uncertainty due to a regulatory clash between the university and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, the Executive Director of IADI, Comrade Christopher Ofomhi, described the situation as a “national emergency” that reflects “a damaging overlap between professional regulation and academic governance.” According to him, the crisis stems from outdated MDCN quota restrictions and a lack of synergy with the National Universities Commission (NUC), which has led to the rejection of students despite their legitimate admission.
“The lives and dreams of over 300 UNICAL students are hanging in the balance. We cannot afford to look the other way,” Ofomhi said. “What is happening at UNICAL is not an isolated incident. Several Vice Chancellors across the country are grappling with similar contradictions from professional bodies.”
Comrade Ogakwu Dominic, President of the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), added his voice to the call for urgent reforms, stressing that the situation is a “lingering menace that should not be ignored.” He said, “This crisis affects the lives of students who had high hopes for their future. It is disheartening that young Nigerians are subjected to such emotional and academic trauma due to inter-agency conflicts.”
IADI further decried the hypocrisy of allowing mass registration of foreign-trained doctors and dentists while capping local university admissions to as few as ten students per year. “This archaic policy undermines healthcare development, denies access to qualified students, and contradicts national objectives,” Ofomhi emphasized.
The group demanded the immediate recall and reintegration of the affected students, a presidential directive for a nationwide audit of similar regulatory conflicts, and reaffirmation of the NUC’s authority over academic accreditation. It warned that if no decisive action is taken, it will escalate its advocacy through peaceful protests, strategic media engagements, and legal action to ensure justice for the affected students.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
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I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
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