Idongesit Mishael, Uyo
The newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Professor Christopher Ekong, on Tuesday declared an uncompromising crackdown on cultism and sexual harassment, warning that any staff or student found culpable would face disciplinary action within 72 hours.
Speaking during his investiture as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution, Ekong unveiled what appeared to be one of the toughest anti-misconduct policies in the university’s history, insisting that his administration would operate a zero-tolerance regime against behaviours capable of undermining academic excellence and campus safety.
“We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and cultism. The panel will not sit for more than 72 hours, and anyone involved will be shown the way out of the university,” he declared.
Beyond disciplinary reforms, the Vice Chancellor announced a sweeping security and digital transformation agenda aimed at making the institution safer and more efficient. He disclosed plans to deploy CCTV surveillance systems, drones and biometric access controls across campuses to combat insecurity and monitor movement within the university community.
Ekong said biometric capturing would also be introduced within his first 100 days in office to determine the actual number of staff and students and strengthen administrative planning. He further promised a comprehensive audit of the university’s infrastructure, finances, human resources, academic programmes and administrative systems.
The Vice Chancellor also pledged to provide round-the-clock internet access for staff and students, noting that work had already commenced on the digitisation of the institution’s ICT infrastructure. He added that the management would outsource the operation of key facilities such as hostels and lecture theatres to professional facility managers to ensure sustainable maintenance.
As part of efforts to improve the university’s physical environment, Ekong promised aggressive landscaping, regular maintenance of green areas, artistic beautification of buildings and gates, and the refurbishment of dilapidated structures while preserving existing facilities in good condition.
In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Dr Muiz Banire, urged the new Vice Chancellor to rise above the controversies that trailed his emergence and remain focused on the task ahead. Describing the selection process as turbulent and challenging, Banire advised Ekong to forgive those who opposed his appointment and avoid distractions.
“The journey to this day has not been smooth. It has been turbulent and, at times, traumatic,” Banire said, adding that there was no room for revenge despite the difficulties encountered during the leadership transition.
The outgoing Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Samuel Odewumi, also counselled Ekong to focus on the future of the institution rather than dwell on past disputes, urging him to concentrate on transforming the university and advancing its academic mission.