The University of Port Harcourt has dissociated itself from alleged partisan political activities and rejected claims linking its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Princewill Chike, to a political coalition.
The University, in a statement signed and dated August 22, 2026 by the Head of Information, Publications and Public Relations, Sam Kpenu, said the allegations were contained in a video circulated online by the State Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, (ADC), Chizy Enyi.
Management described the University of Port Harcourt as a federal and non-partisan institution, stressing that neither its name nor offices should be used in partisan political narratives.
The University specifically denied claims that Professor Chike is the leader of an alleged “Rainbow Coalition” or that he had directed, compelled or encouraged members of the university community to join any political party or political organisation.
It also dismissed allegations that the Vice-Chancellor planned to restrict the selection of INEC ad hoc staff for the 2027 general elections to members of a particular political coalition. According to the university, there is no directive, policy or arrangement by the Vice-Chancellor to that effect.
Management also rejected claims that Professor Chike was “imposed” as Vice-Chancellor, explaining that he applied for the position and went through the prescribed screening and interview processes before emerging as the successful candidate.
On a billboard cited in the allegations as evidence of political activity, the university clarified that it is a privately owned commercial billboard with no institutional connection to the university or the current Vice-Chancellor.
It said the billboard predates Professor Chike’s tenure and was installed during the administration of the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari A. Georgewill.
The university said Professor Chike, a Professor of Medicine, remains focused on his statutory responsibilities, including advancing teaching, learning, research, innovation and community service.
Management warned that the institution would not allow itself or its leadership to be dragged into partisan political disputes, reiterating its commitment to institutional neutrality.
The university has consequently demanded that Chizy Enyi and anyone else responsible for publishing or circulating the allegations retract the statements and issue a public apology within 48 hours, with comparable publicity to the original claims.
It warned that failure to comply would leave the institution with no option but to pursue appropriate legal remedies to protect its reputation and integrity.
The university also said any credible threats, harassment or unlawful conduct arising from the circulation of the allegations would be documented and referred to relevant security and law-enforcement agencies.
It called on political actors, members of the public and media practitioners to verify information before making or circulating allegations concerning the university and its officers.
The University of Port Harcourt reaffirmed that it remains above partisan politics and committed to its statutory mandate of teaching, research, innovation and service to society.
