The National Industrial Court in Calabar has ordered the reinstatement of Professor Austin Angba as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), months after his removal from office.
In its ruling on Suit No. NICN/CA/34/2024, the court declared that Professor Angba’s suspension by the university’s governing council in 2024 violated the provisions of the law establishing UNICROSS. As a result, the court directed his immediate reinstatement, bringing an end to the leadership uncertainty that had gripped the institution.
This decision comes just weeks after Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State dissolved the university’s governing council and appointed Professor Francisca Bassey as Acting Vice Chancellor, with Dr. Fidelis Ugbo as the Pro-Chancellor.
Professor Angba was suspended indefinitely in 2024 over allegations of misappropriation and misconduct, a move that sparked controversy within the institution.
The ruling is expected to have significant implications for the university’s administration, with stakeholders hoping that Angba’s return will restore stability and ensure effective governance at UNICROSS.
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