The Voice of African Universities (VAU) has condemned what it described as a targeted blackmail attempt against a lecturer at the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano.
In a statement issued by its Vice President for Higher Education Development, Fafana Khalidou, the organization expressed concern over a social media campaign allegedly orchestrated by a parent who sought preferential treatment for his daughter’s admission despite failing to meet necessary requirements.
VAU praised the university’s leadership, led by Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for responding swiftly and upholding institutional integrity, while calling for strict action against those involved.
Below is the full statement issued by the Voice of African Universities (VAU):
VOICE OF AFRICA UNIVERSITIES (VAU) STATEMENT
Condemnation of Targeted Blackmail Attempt Against University Faculty and Institution
The Voice of African Universities (VAU) expresses profound concern regarding a recent distressing incident involving a lecturer at Maryam Abacha American University, Nigeria (MAAUN) in Kano. This situation has been marked by a calculated and malicious social media campaign aimed at discrediting both the faculty member and the university. It stems from an unwarranted confrontation initiated by a parent seeking preferential treatment for his daughter’s admission, despite her lack of the necessary examination clearance. The lecturer, Dr. M. Adamu, upheld university regulations amid unwarranted pressure, only to find himself the target of a deceptive and misleading online smear campaign.
The incident began when the parent confronted Dr. Adamu at an examination venue, explicitly demanding that his daughter be granted access without requisite documentation. When Dr. Adamu enforced university policies, the exchange escalated into a disrespectful confrontation during which the parent and daughter covertly recorded and subsequently manipulated the lecturer’s response. This footage was then disseminated on social media, distorting the facts and maligning the educator. Such actions are indicative of a broader issue: the troubling tendency of individuals with perceived power or influence believing they are above institutional protocols designed to uphold fairness and integrity within academia.
VAU firmly stands against intimidation and harassment directed at educators who are diligently performing their duties. We uphold a zero tolerance policy towards any attempts to bully or blackmail faculty members, irrespective of an individual’s perceived social status or connections. The professionalism demonstrated by Dr. Adamu, who reiterated that respect for academic regulations and ethics stands above any personal status, serves as a commendable example of the standards we endorse within higher education. We believe that safeguarding academic freedom and dignity is essential for fostering a positive educational environment.
We commend MAAUN and its proactive leadership, led by Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, for swiftly initiating disciplinary and legal actions in response to this incident. VAU encourages a thorough investigation and appropriate measures against those involved, in accordance with university regulations. This incident underscores a growing trend in which individuals leverage their privilege to undermine the rigors of academia. It is imperative that universities across Africa collectively address and combat such behaviors to preserve the integrity and meritocratic principles that are foundational to higher education. VAU pledges unwavering support to MAAUN and its faculty, and we remain committed to advocating for an educational landscape governed by fairness and respect for established protocols.
Fafana Khalidou
Vice President, Higher Education Development
Voice of African Universities (VAU).
