● Obiageli Nwancho
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) Ebonyi State has indefinitely suspended Felix Okemini Ifesinachi, a student in the Department of Political Science, for alleged involvement in cultism during the university’s matriculation ceremony on March 14, 2025. The suspension, conveyed in a letter dated March 20, 2025, with reference number AEFUNAI/R/060/VOL. XI, was issued by the Registrar, T. Ifeanyi Igwe, Esq., on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor and the Senate.
The university, in the letter, stated that Mr. Okemini’s actions violated his matriculation oath and contravened the institution’s rules, which strictly prohibit cultism and other related activities. “Cultism and cult-related activities are unacceptable and pose a security and moral threat to the University Community,” the letter emphasized, reaffirming the institution’s zero-tolerance policy on such matters.
As a consequence of his alleged involvement, the Vice-Chancellor directed that Mr. Okemini be placed on indefinite suspension pending further investigation by the Students’ Disciplinary Committee. The university made it clear that the suspension takes immediate effect, barring the student from all academic and non-academic activities within the institution.
Reacting to the development, a senior university official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, reiterated the school’s commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring a safe learning environment. “AE-FUNAI is determined to rid the university of any form of cultism. We will not tolerate any activity that endangers students and staff,” the official stated.
Students and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the suspension, with some calling for a thorough investigation while others applauded the university’s swift action. A student leader in the Faculty of Social Sciences noted, “This sends a strong message that the university is serious about upholding discipline. We hope the disciplinary committee will ensure a fair and transparent investigation.”
Beyond this specific case, university authorities have urged all students to resist any involvement in cultism and other vices that could jeopardize their academic pursuits and future careers. The Dean of Student Affairs, in a separate statement, warned, “Students should focus on their studies and avoid being lured into unlawful activities that could ruin their lives.”
Security experts and education analysts have also weighed in on the issue, emphasizing the dangers of cultism in tertiary institutions. Dr. Chijioke Nwankwo, a sociologist, noted that “cultism has continued to be a menace in Nigerian universities, often leading to violence, loss of lives, and disruption of academic activities. Authorities must remain vigilant and proactive.”
Interestingly, Mr. Okemini, aside from being a student, is alleged to hold a political appointment as a Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Internal Security. His suspension has sparked further debates on the responsibilities of public officeholders and the need for those in leadership positions to set positive examples. As the university investigates the matter, its decisive action serves as a stern warning that engagement in cult activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
AE-FUNAI’s firm stance on cultism aligns with broader efforts by Nigerian universities to curb the menace of secret cults on campuses. GMTNewsng
