The eighth Governing Council of the Federal College of Education (FCE), Obudu, Cross River State, has suspended the institution’s Provost, Dr. Ugbaha Utubaku, following allegations of maladministration and gross misconduct.
The decision was reached during an emergency meeting of the Council held at the college on Tuesday, where members reportedly deliberated extensively on several petitions and complaints lodged against the embattled Provost.
According to a statement issued by the Council’s Chairman, the suspension was necessary to allow for an independent and unhindered investigation into the allegations.
“The Governing Council, after due consideration of the issues brought before it and in line with the provisions of the Federal College of Education Act, resolved to suspend Dr. Ugbaha Utubaku from office as Provost of the Federal College of Education, Obudu, pending the outcome of a full-scale investigation,” the statement read.
The Council further explained that the decision was in the best interest of the college community, noting that the allegations, if proven true, could undermine administrative order and accountability within the institution.
In the interim, the Council announced that the Deputy Provost Dr Mohammed Aliyu has been directed to assume the position of Acting Provost to ensure the smooth running of the college’s academic and administrative affairs.
Sources within the college told reporters that the suspended Provost faced multiple accusations, including financial impropriety, abuse of office, and disregard for due process in the management of institutional resources.
Meanwhile, the Council assured all staff and students that the investigation would be thorough, transparent, and fair, adding that its decision was aimed at upholding integrity and restoring confidence in the college’s leadership.
