The Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, has taken a decisive step by expelling 15 final-year law students, including a Catholic priest from the Orlu Diocese (identity withheld) and a lecturer from the Department of Management Sciences.
The expulsion comes as a consequence of their alleged involvement in various forms of examination malpractice.
The university made the announcement of the expulsion before Christmas Day, with a university official leading the charge. There are reports that this official has threatened legal action against the university’s management if the expulsion is not officially ratified.
While some describe the expulsion as harsh, a source at the university acknowledged that the students were indeed guilty of the charges brought against them.
However, the source emphasized that the 15 expelled students should not be singled out, as many others across different departments are also involved in similar malpractices.
The source disclosed that some of the expelled students went as far as hiring individuals to impersonate them in examinations, while others were caught using mobile phones during exam sessions.
One notable case involves the Catholic priest who allegedly hired a ‘mercenary’ to take an exam on his behalf. The priest cited security concerns in the Orlu region, preventing him from traveling to Owerri for the examination. It was reported that unknown gunmen shot at the priest’s vehicle while he was en route to Owerri, leading to his inability to appear for the exam.
The source further revealed that the group advocating for the expulsion opposed a female lecturer who was simultaneously studying law while employed at the university.
When reached for comment, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Sir Ralph Njoku-Obi, stated that he currently lacks information on the matter.
