Crisis at Ebonyi College Over Dual Provost Appointments

A significant crisis has emerged at the Federal College of Agriculture in Ishiagu, Ebonyi State, following the controversial appointments of two provosts: Dr. Jonah Nwawuisi as acting provost and Professor Agwu Ekw as substantive provost.

Dr. Nwawuisi was appointed last year, while Professor Ekw's appointment was made on April 10, 2026, despite the Joint Union Action and the Academic Staff Union of Colleges of Agriculture rejecting it due to a lack of adherence to due process.

The college's gates were locked in response to protests, which have paralyzed academic activities. Dr.

Thankgod Nwaneri, chairman of the Joint Union Action, emphasized the illegitimacy of the appointments, stating that qualified candidates were not invited for interviews. The unions demand an immediate withdrawal of Professor Ekw's appointment and a transparent selection process for the provost positions across seven colleges.

They have issued a 14-day ultimatum for the government to address these issues or face a resumption of strikes.