In a bold declaration, the new Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has vowed to crack down on sexual harassment, exam malpractice, and other vices that have long plagued Nigerian universities. His strong stance comes as the institution records its highest-ever student intake, admitting 11,083 students for the 2024/2025 academic session.
Speaking at the 43rd matriculation ceremony, Zeb-Obipi warned that his administration would have “zero tolerance” for unethical behavior, including drug abuse, cultism, extortion, and indecent dressing. His remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some applauding the effort while others question how effectively such policies will be enforced.
With Nigerian universities often criticized for turning a blind eye to sexual harassment and corruption, the VC’s warning signals a potential shake-up in the institution’s culture. However, skeptics argue that without proper enforcement mechanisms, these pronouncements might remain empty threats, especially in a system where lecturers and administrators have been accused of participating in the very vices he seeks to eradicate.
The matriculation also highlighted a historic rise in student admissions, with 29,107 candidates initially applying, but only 11,083 securing a spot. The surge in admissions has raised concerns about whether the university has the infrastructure and resources to accommodate this influx while maintaining academic integrity.
As Rivers State University embarks on this ambitious transformation, many are left wondering: Will Professor Zeb-Obipi’s administration truly cleanse the system, or will this be yet another case of grand declarations with little action?
