Michael and Cecilia Ibru University in Delta State has taken down the profile and photographs of its Pro-Chancellor, Anthony Kila, from its website. This move comes after allegations surfaced that Kila falsely used the title of professor. A review of the university's website on Tuesday at 09:25 am confirmed that Kila's name, profile, and photographs were no longer displayed. Previously, his details appeared alongside those of the university's proprietress, Cecilia Ibru, and Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyinka Fuwape.
The removal of Kila's profile follows an investigation by PREMIUM TIMES that found no evidence of a recognised university awarding him the academic rank of professor. Despite this, Kila has long used the title. The development raises questions about the university's stance on the allegations, but the institution has yet to issue a public statement. Vice-Chancellor Fuwape stated that the university would respond to the questions raised by the investigation.
Kila has rejected the description of him as a "fake professor," calling it inaccurate, misleading, and damaging to his reputation. In a statement, he insisted that he is a professor and stands by his academic and professional credentials. Kila argued that the report was based on an incomplete understanding of his professorship and offered to make documents available for scrutiny.
According to Kila, the European Centre for Advanced and Professional Studies, based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, awarded him the professorship in 2016. He expressed bafflement at the attention directed at him, stating that he neither holds nor seeks political office and is not a government official. Kila acknowledged the role of journalism in scrutinising credentials but emphasised that it should be done fairly and with a proper understanding of the facts.
The university's removal of Kila's profile does not establish whether the title was valid, and the institution has yet to explain the reason for the change. The Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyinka Fuwape, had previously stated that the university would respond to the questions raised by the investigation.
Kila is also the Director of the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies. He objected to being called a "fake professor," saying it was presented as a factual conclusion with serious implications for his reputation. Kila emphasised that scrutiny of credentials should be conducted fairly and with a proper understanding of the facts.
The controversy surrounding Kila's academic title has sparked debate about the verification of credentials for individuals in positions of responsibility. The incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in academic and professional settings. The university's handling of the situation will be closely watched as it navigates this sensitive issue.
Key points
- The university's removal of Kila's profile and photographs from its website is a significant development in the controversy surrounding his academic title.
- Kila has rejected the allegations, insisting that he is a professor with valid academic and professional credentials.
- The incident raises questions about the verification of credentials for individuals in positions of responsibility and the importance of transparency and accountability.
