The Vice-Chancellor,
Ebonyi State University,
PMB 053,
Abakaliki.

Dear Sir,

RE: CONCERNS OVER THE QUALITY, LANGUAGE, AND PROCEDURAL DEFECTS IN AN OFFICIAL MEMORANDUM DATED 16 JANUARY 2026

I write as a deeply concerned alumnus to express serious concerns about the internal memorandum titled “Suspension of Prof. A. E. Umahi, HOD Industrial Physics” purportedly issued from the Office of the Vice-Chancellor on 16 January 2026.

While allegations of misconduct must always be treated with due seriousness, it is equally imperative that official communication from a reputable academic institution reflects the highest standards of professionalism, clarity, fairness, and adherence to due process. Regrettably, the referenced memo falls short on several critical grounds.

1. Grammatical and Structural Deficiencies
The document is replete with grammatical errors, poor sentence construction, inconsistent tense usage, and incorrect pluralization (e.g. “complain” instead of “complaint,” “Class Rep were,” “to reduced it”). Such errors are unbecoming of an official correspondence from a university and undermine the credibility of the institution.

2. Inappropriate Language and Prejudicial Tone
The memo categorically labels the allegation as “a pure case of extortion” prior to any investigation or disciplinary hearing. This is a grave procedural flaw, as it presumes guilt before due process. An official memo should avoid prejudicial language and instead indicate that allegations are under investigation.

3. Procedural Irregularities
The document appears to recommend suspension and salary reduction before referral to the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee, which contradicts established principles of natural justice and university governance. Disciplinary bodies exist precisely to investigate, establish facts, and recommend sanctions, not merely to ratify pre-determined outcomes.

4. Ambiguity and Inconsistencies
There is confusion regarding names, roles, and authority. For instance, “Prof. A. E. Umahi” and “Prof. Edmund Umahi” are used interchangeably without clarification. Additionally, the memo’s signatory status (“For: Vice-Chancellor”) further raises questions about authorization and accountability.

5. Institutional Reputation
Ebonyi State University is a public institution whose documents often enter the public domain. Communications of this nature, when poorly written and procedurally flawed, risk reputational damage to the university, its leadership, and the Nigerian academic system at large.

In view of the foregoing, I respectfully urge the university management to:

i. Review and withdraw the memo in its current form

ii. Ensure that disciplinary matters strictly follow due process

iii. Institute stronger editorial and legal vetting of official communications

iv. Uphold the standards expected of a university of learning and character

v. This intervention is made in good faith, with the sincere hope that Ebonyi State University continues to uphold academic excellence, institutional integrity, and administrative professionalism.

Yours faithfully,
Francis Nwoba (Pope)
A Concerned Alumnus