The Voice of African Universities (VAU) has condemned what it described as a “malicious and calculated campaign of blackmail” targeted at a faculty member and the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano.
In a statement released by the organisation’s Vice President for Higher Education Development, Fafana Khalidou said the incident arose after a parent and student allegedly attempted to bypass standard examination procedures. The parent reportedly appeared uninvited at an examination venue, demanding that his daughter be allowed to sit for an exam without the requisite exam clearance card.
“When the supervising lecturer, Dr. M. Adamu, insisted on compliance with university regulations, the situation allegedly escalated into a verbal confrontation. The parent and student are accused of covertly recording the exchange, editing the footage to misrepresent the lecturer’s actions, and circulating it on social media in an apparent bid to discredit both the academic and the university.
VAU described the act as “a calculated attempt to undermine institutional integrity and academic governance.”
“No individual — regardless of wealth, family background, or social connections — is above institutional rules,” the statement reads. “Respect for ethics and due process is the foundation upon which higher education stands.”
VAU praised Dr. Adamu’s “measured and principled response,” which it said exemplified professionalism under provocation. The organization expressed zero tolerance for attempts to intimidate or blackmail educators performing their lawful duties, adding that such incidents threaten the very fabric of academic freedom and fairness.
“The lecturer’s response — reminding the parent that ethics must be respected regardless of status — was both appropriate and commendable,” Khalidou said. “It is unacceptable for educators to be vilified for upholding standards.”
VAU also commended MAAUN for taking prompt disciplinary and legal measures to address the matter. The body called for a thorough investigation and appropriate sanctions against those responsible, in accordance with university statutes.
“We will continue to monitor developments and advocate for stronger safeguards across African universities against similar abuses,” the statement noted.
The incident, VAU warned, reflects a growing trend of individuals using influence or social media manipulation to subvert academic rules. The organization urged universities across Africa to stand together in defending merit-based systems and protecting educators from undue pressure.
