University of Calabar Expels 100-Level Student Chukwuemeka Victory Over Alleged Phone Theft
In a move underscoring its zero-tolerance policy toward indiscipline and criminal behavior, the University of Calabar (UNICAL) has officially expelled a 100-level student identified as Chukwuemeka Victory from the Department of Public Health. The expulsion follows the student’s alleged involvement in a case of phone theft that occurred during the 2023/2024 academic session.
This decisive action was communicated through an official statement signed by Dr. Chukwuka Icha, the Registrar and Secretary to Council of the University. The statement was made public on Monday, May 19, 2025, highlighting that the university took the disciplinary action after a comprehensive investigation conducted by the Senate Students Disciplinary Committee (SSDC).
“The Vice Chancellor has received the report of the Senate Students Disciplinary Committee, which investigated an alleged case of Phone Theft during the 2023/2024 Academic Session," the university statement reads.
“Senate has approved the recommendation of the SSDC that you be expelled from the University for phone theft."
This stern action against Chukwuemeka Victory reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to discipline, academic integrity, and moral conduct among its students. The management of the institution, under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Florence Obi, reaffirmed its firm stance on eradicating all forms of misconduct within the university environment.
The Allegation: A Breach of Trust in a Learning Community
The alleged phone theft incident involving Chukwuemeka Victory might seem isolated, but it strikes at the very core of the values that a reputable institution like the University of Calabar upholds. Universities are expected to be safe havens for learning, personal development, and innovation. Cases of theft, particularly by students who are meant to be undergoing moral and academic grooming, tarnish the image of such institutions.
The university’s management, evidently determined to preserve its reputation, made it clear that disciplinary actions are non-negotiable for any form of misconduct—especially criminal behavior like theft. The Senate Students Disciplinary Committee played a pivotal role in the investigation, ensuring that due process was followed before reaching its conclusion.
Disciplinary Action: How the Decision Was Reached
Following the report from the SSDC, the university’s Senate deliberated on the findings and reached a consensus. The committee’s recommendation for expulsion was not taken lightly. It was based on verified evidence that proved the student’s culpability beyond reasonable doubt. The Vice Chancellor acted promptly upon receiving the report and directed all necessary university units to enforce the decision.
As per the official release:
“Senate has approved the recommendation of the SSDC that you be expelled from the University for phone theft."
To ensure the immediate enforcement of the expulsion, the letter also directed senior university officials including the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, the Head of Department of Medicine and Surgery, and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to carry out the decision without delay.
This coordinated response shows how seriously UNICAL takes disciplinary breaches, especially when they relate to criminal activities like theft, which could jeopardize the peace and trust within the university community.
University’s Position: Zero Tolerance for Misconduct
The case of Chukwuemeka Victory is a clear warning to other students that the University of Calabar will not condone any behavior that violates its rules and regulations. The university, through its Vice Chancellor and administrative team, emphasized their zero-tolerance policy on all forms of misconduct.
“The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Florence Obi and the university management reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on misconduct and affirmed their commitment to upholding discipline and integrity within the academic community."
UNICAL, which is one of Nigeria’s foremost institutions of higher learning, prides itself on fostering an environment of academic excellence and moral uprightness. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Florence Obi, has been known for her proactive and principled leadership since assuming office. Under her guidance, the university has taken notable steps to instill discipline, improve academic standards, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of students and staff.
The Implications of Expulsion for Chukwuemeka Victory
Being expelled from a university is one of the most severe penalties a student can face. For Chukwuemeka Victory, a 100-level student who was just beginning his academic journey, the expulsion marks a serious setback—not just academically, but also socially and psychologically. The student will not only lose his admission and academic credits, but he will also face the stigma and long-term consequences of being expelled for criminal behavior.
Such a record could affect his ability to gain admission into another university, secure scholarships, or even find employment in the future, especially if the offense is made public in future background checks.
This incident serves as a reminder to students nationwide that character is just as important as academic performance. Integrity, honesty, and responsibility are qualities that every institution expects from its students. Once those are compromised, consequences are bound to follow.
Lessons for Other Nigerian Universities and Students
The University of Calabar’s decisive action in this case can be seen as a model of institutional discipline. In a time where cases of academic fraud, cultism, harassment, and theft are reported in several campuses across Nigeria, this bold move sends a strong message.
Universities across Nigeria must strengthen their internal disciplinary systems and ensure that students are aware of the consequences of misconduct. By doing so, they can help build a better academic culture that produces not just educated graduates, but responsible citizens.
For students, this is a time for introspection. Beyond academic qualifications, the kind of person a student becomes during their university years matters greatly. The pressure to impress peers or acquire material things should never push any student toward illegal or unethical actions.
Final Thoughts: Upholding Discipline in Nigerian Universities
The expulsion of Chukwuemeka Victory from the University of Calabar for phone theft is not just about punishing a student—it is about preserving the sanctity of an academic environment. It’s about reinforcing the values of honesty, discipline, and accountability that every higher institution should embody.
While the incident is unfortunate, it serves a bigger purpose. It stands as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar acts. It also reinforces the public’s trust in UNICAL’s management for taking difficult but necessary actions to protect the university’s reputation and community.
UNICAL’s decision sends a clear message: There is no place for criminality within its walls.
As Nigeria’s educational institutions continue to battle with challenges related to student conduct, it is heartening to see one university lead by example. Hopefully, others will follow.
