October 10, (THEWILL) – The Head of Department (HOD) of Pharmacology, in the University of Calabar (UniCal), Joseph Akpan, has been suspended for allegedly altering examination results of 235 students.
UniCal Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, disclosed this to newsmen in Calabar.
The VC explained that Akpan allegedly altered students’ scores in the Introduction to General Antimicrobial Pharmacology (PHM 311) course results.
“Akpan altered the scores in 235 result scripts out of the 242 result scripts entrusted to his care. Only five scripts were genuinely marked without alteration”, she said, adding that two students who did not participate in the examination were awarded marks.
“The lecturer also allegedly gave out marks to two students who did not participate in the examinations”, said. Prof Obi.
The VC, who claimed that Akpan admitted the misconduct before the Senate Examination Misconduct Committee (SEMC), said he allegedly admitted that he inflated the scores of students in PHM 311 to protect the image of the department.
Describing the conduct as “ridiculous and unacceptable”, the VC said, “Consequently, the management of the University has directed that he should be relieved of his appointment as HOD and Coordinator of PHM 311, as well as suspended from duty with effect from Oct. 8, 2024.
“Akpan’s official responsibilities are to be reassigned to other qualified lecturers in the department. He has also been directed to stay away from the university forthwith unless while responding to the invitation of relevant committees.”
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
