The management of Abia State University (ABSU) has suspended the Head of the Department of Anatomy, Dr. Agbai Johnson Ukwa, over allegations of grade manipulation and other forms of academic misconduct.
The suspension comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the institution’s academic records, with the Abia State Government ordering a comprehensive review of students’ results and mark sheets spanning the past five years.
According to the state government, the audit is intended to determine the extent of the alleged malpractice and restore confidence in the integrity of the university’s academic system.
Authorities said the decision to suspend the department head was taken to allow for an unhindered investigation into the allegations.
The government noted that the review would cover examination records, mark sheets and other relevant academic documents across the period under scrutiny to establish whether students’ grades were altered or manipulated.
Officials stressed that the exercise is part of broader efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and quality assurance within the state’s higher education system.
The investigation follows allegations that some students’ grades may have been unlawfully adjusted, raising concerns about the credibility of academic assessments at the university.
While details of the alleged misconduct have not been fully disclosed, authorities said all individuals found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary and legal measures in accordance with established regulations.
The Abia State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the integrity of academic institutions, stressing that it would not tolerate practices capable of undermining educational standards or public confidence in university qualifications.
It also assured students, parents and other stakeholders that the review process would be conducted fairly, objectively and without prejudice to any individual.
University authorities have urged members of the institution’s community to cooperate with investigators by providing any information that may assist in establishing the facts surrounding the allegations.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the probe, describing it as a necessary step towards safeguarding academic integrity and ensuring that degrees awarded by the institution reflect genuine academic achievement.
They noted that maintaining credible examination and assessment systems is essential to preserving the reputation of Nigerian universities both locally and internationally.
The development has also renewed calls for stronger internal oversight mechanisms, including regular audits of examination processes, digital record management and stricter monitoring of academic staff responsible for grading and result processing.
Analysts say allegations of grade manipulation, if proven, could have far-reaching implications for affected students, academic staff and the university’s reputation.
They, however, emphasised that those under investigation should be afforded due process while the inquiry is ongoing.
The Abia State Government said it remains committed to implementing necessary reforms arising from the investigation to strengthen accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the review continues, students and stakeholders are expected to await the outcome of the investigation, which authorities say will determine the next course of action regarding any confirmed cases of academic misconduct.
