Dr Enyi Onyebuchi Paul, a native of Ikelegu Ishieke in Ndiabor community, Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, holds a PhD in Mathematics Education. However, despite his academic qualifications, he continues to work as a cleaner and messenger at Ebonyi State University (EBSU), where he has been employed since 2007.
Barrister Solomon Okwudili Nwoji first brought his plight to public attention in a viral Facebook post, which has since been widely shared by notable human rights advocates and educators, including Dele Farotimi.
His story has sparked outrage, particularly among members of the Izzi clan, who see his situation as a stain on their collective conscience and an indictment of the university’s promotion policies.
A Journey Marked by Perseverance
According to reports, Dr Enyi began his career at the university as a non-academic staff member. Despite earning a modest income, he enrolled at EBSU and gradually advanced his education, obtaining a BSc in 2013, an MSc in 2017, and ultimately a PhD in Mathematics Education in 2022.
However, three years after completing his doctorate, he claims the university has refused to convert him to an academic role. He further alleges that under the previous Vice-Chancellor, six individuals from outside the institution were recruited into his department—positions he insists he is more than qualified to occupy.
Allegations of Unfair Recruitment Practices
Sources close to Dr Enyi suggest that his failure to secure a lecturing position stems from a lack of influential connections. Efforts to seek assistance from political figures and prominent members of the Izzi community have reportedly been unsuccessful.
“This should be an embarrassment to any Izzi man he approached for help,” said Odo Godfrey Chikwere, a journalist and advocate who has spoken out about the case. “EBSU should have converted this man and used him as an example of hard work and dedication. But because he does not have the right connections, he remains a cleaner despite holding a PhD.”
Concerns Beyond Employment
The Presco campus of EBSU, where Dr Enyi works, has also been the subject of recent security concerns, including reports of robbery and sexual assault. This has led to growing calls for urgent intervention from state authorities and university management.
Public Reactions
Dr Enyi’s story, shared widely on Facebook, has drawn strong reactions from Nigerians, many of whom have condemned the situation:
Malachy Odo II: “He should be encouraged to seek employment in other institutions, including private universities. Opportunities exist elsewhere.”
Ariba Simileoluwa: “Malachy Odo II, exactly…”
Sopuru Egbodo: “Are you sure his struggles are solely due to a lack of connections? If he is truly competent, he should explore opportunities elsewhere.”
Ichenna Mbam: “This is terrible.”
Emmanuel Ilori: “Absolutely pathetic. Why is our system like this?”
Onyemaechi Stephen: “How can a man with a PhD still be working as a cleaner in his own state?”
Comr Barr Solomon Okwudili Nwoji: (Replying to Onyemaechi Stephen)
Onye Kachukwu: “He should apply for academic positions like everyone else. Holding a PhD does not automatically guarantee a lecturing job. If he is truly interested in teaching, he should explore opportunities elsewhere.”
Awaiting Official Response
As of the time of reporting, the management of Ebonyi State University has yet to issue an official statement regarding Dr Enyi Onyebuchi Paul’s employment status or the allegations of unfair recruitment practices.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.