The management of the Anglican Church -owned Paul University, Awka, has suspended a member of its academic staff, Venerable Cornelius Eze, over allegation of sexual molestation in the institution.

Eze, who is a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, has been placed on indefinite suspension pending the outcome of both the university’s internal disciplinary process and investigations by relevant law enforcement agencies.

Public Relations Officer of the institution , Rev. Godisplan Onukwufor said in a statement on Friday that investigations into the allegations have already commenced.

A video circulating on social media showed the alleged suspended staff dressed only in his boxer shorts and allegedly fleeing from his office after the incident.

A statement by the institution’s Public Relations Officer read: “The management of Paul University, Awka, wishes to inform the general public that it is currently investigating allegations of serious misconduct involving a member of staff, Venerable Cornelius Eze, a Practical Biology Technologist in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences.

” The allegations were brought to the attention of the university management on Tuesday, 14th July, 2026. In line with its duty to ensure the safety and well-being of the members of the university community, management immediately intervened and invited the relevant security agency to take over the matter to forestall a breakdown of law and order, as tensions had risen among students following the incident.

“As a preliminary administrative measure and without prejudice to the outcome of the ongoing investigations, the university management has placed the staff on indefinite suspension, pending the conclusion of both the internal disciplinary process and any investigation being conducted by the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

“Paul University is a faith- based institution founded on the principles of integrity, discipline, moral uprightness and respect for the dignity of humanity.

” The university wishes to state unequivocally that it does not condone sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, immoral behaviour, abuse of office, or any conduct capable of endangering the safety, dignity or welfare of students and staff.

“Any member of staff or student found culpable of violating the university’s regulations or laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be dealt with in accordance with due process.”

The university said it is mindful of the emotional and psychological impact such allegations may have on those involved, noting that arrangements were being made to provide appropriate counseling and therapeutic support to the affected students and any other concerned member of the university community.

While urging members of the public to refrain from speculation, misinformation or actions capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigations, the university assured parents, guardians, students and staff of its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and morally sound learning environment.

It added that further information would be communicated as investigations progress and when it becomes appropriate to do so. (Vanguard, excluding headline)