Group Petitions MOUAU Governing Council, Seeks Disciplinary Action Against Director Facing Criminal Charges

The Integrity and Transparency Consortium has petitioned the Governing Council of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), demanding immediate disciplinary action against the institution’s Director of Agribusiness, Dr. Philip Nto, who is currently standing trial in a criminal case referenced as Suit No. H/69C/2024 – FRN vs Nto & 4 Others.

In a letter dated 25th November 2025 and addressed to the Vice Chancellor through the Pro-Chancellor, the group—led by its State Coordinator, Chief Chika Offor—expressed disappointment that the university had failed to act on its earlier complaint for over six months.

The petition accused the administration of “sweeping a grave matter under the carpet,” despite its public stance on due process and administrative reform. The Consortium insisted that the university must apply Rule 11.7 of the MOUAU Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017) and the Public Service Rule 030404, both of which outline disciplinary measures for public officers facing criminal charges.

The group stressed that since Dr. Nto has been formally charged, he “can no longer remain fully in active employment,” and urged the council to effect his interdiction in the interest of fairness and justice.
When contacted Dr Nto said he is yet to see the petition and could only respond thereafter.