Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has suspended 19 students for one academic session following their alleged involvement in examination misconduct, a decision that underscores the institution's zero-tolerance policy against academic fraud and malpractices. The suspension, which was approved by the university's Senate after a review of recommendations from the Students' Disciplinary Committee, affects students from various faculties and departments across the institution. The directive was contained in a letter signed by the Director of Administration, Dr Citizen Ekpo, on behalf of the Registrar, Dr Chukwuka Icha, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in Calabar.
Confirming the development, the Head of the university's Public Relations Unit, Mr Effiong Eyo, said the disciplinary action followed the Senate's consideration and approval of the committee's findings. According to Eyo, the affected students have been suspended for the entire 2025/2026 academic session and will only be eligible to resume their studies in the 2026/2027 academic session. "The university has approved a one-session suspension for the affected students. They are expected to return to campus in the 2026/2027 academic session," Eyo said.
The suspended students are drawn from a wide range of faculties, including Administration, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Arts, Education, Allied Medical Sciences, Pharmacy, and Environmental Sciences. Others affected are from the Departments of Nursing Science, Peace and Conflict Studies, Science Laboratory Technology, Estate Management, Marketing, and other related academic programmes. The university spokesperson added that all deans, heads of departments, and relevant administrative units have been directed to enforce the suspension and ensure strict compliance with the Senate's decision.
The disciplinary action is part of UNICAL's broader commitment to upholding academic integrity and maintaining a zero-tolerance policy against examination malpractice. The university has previously taken firm stances on academic misconduct. In February 2026, the Senate announced the suspension of nine students for two academic sessions over examination malpractice and forged results. In another instance, the university expelled 33 students for alleged examination malpractice. These repeated actions reflect the institution's determination to protect the sanctity of its academic processes and ensure that students who engage in fraudulent activities face appropriate consequences.
The suspension of the 19 students comes at a time when Nigerian universities are grappling with rising cases of examination malpractice, a trend that has undermined the credibility of academic qualifications. The Federal Government and university administrators have repeatedly warned that examination malpractice will not be tolerated, with many institutions adopting stricter measures to detect and punish offenders. The use of technology, including surveillance cameras and electronic verification systems, has been deployed in some universities to curb the menace. However, the persistence of such incidents highlights the need for continued vigilance and a culture of integrity among students and staff alike.
For the affected students, the suspension means a year away from their studies, with the prospect of resuming in the next academic session. The university has made it clear that the suspension applies to the entire 2025/2026 session, and the students will not be allowed to participate in any academic activities during this period. The directive to deans and heads of departments to enforce the suspension ensures that the decision is strictly implemented across all faculties and departments.
The university's action has been met with mixed reactions from students and the public. While some have commended the institution for taking a firm stand against examination malpractice, others have expressed concern about the impact of the suspension on the affected students' academic careers. However, the university has maintained that the decision was made in the best interest of academic integrity and that all students are expected to adhere to the highest standards of conduct.
As the 2025/2026 academic session progresses, the suspension of the 19 students serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of examination misconduct. The university has reiterated its commitment to upholding academic standards and has urged all students to avoid any form of malpractice. The decision also aligns with the broader efforts of Nigerian universities to restore confidence in the country's higher education system, which has been plagued by allegations of fraud and misconduct.
The University of Calabar's latest disciplinary action underscores the institution's resolve to maintain its reputation as a centre of academic excellence. While the suspension is a significant blow to the affected students, it sends a clear message that examination malpractice will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such acts will face the full weight of the university's disciplinary framework. As the university continues to enforce its zero-tolerance policy, students and staff are reminded of their collective responsibility to uphold the values of integrity, honesty, and accountability in all academic pursuits.
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