Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), has officially addressed the ongoing recruitment controversy, defending Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ursula Akanwa. The institution stated that the employment issues stem from the actions of the previous administration, which failed to adhere to the federally approved staffing quota.
According to the university, the hiring process was finalized before Prof. Akanwa began her tenure on March 1, 2026. The management clarified that the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, rather than the university, handles payroll capture on the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS).
Reports surfaced following complaints from employees hired in February 2026 who have worked without payment. These individuals recently had their identification cards confiscated and received notices labeling them as surplus staff. Mr. Anyaso Anyaso, head of the university’s public relations, rejected claims that the current Vice-Chancellor was involved in these events, labeling such accusations as misinformation.
Official records indicate the federal government authorized 426 positions. However, the former administration issued 618 appointment letters. While 553 names were initially entered into the government’s payroll system, the federal platform only recognized the 426 authorized slots. Consequently, those hired beyond the limit were never officially placed on the payroll.
The university stressed that Prof. Akanwa lacks administrative access to the federal payroll system and cannot modify employee records. Management insists that no staff members have been officially fired; rather, the institution is struggling to manage the consequences of hiring significantly more personnel than the budget allows. The university requested that the public disregard unfounded rumors and rely only on official statements regarding this administrative challenge.
