-Isa Yuguda Cites “Government Regulations” as He Shuts Down Media Probe Into Controversial Professor’s Qualifications
As the race for the next Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) intensifies, the institution’s Governing Council Chairman, OBSERVERS TIMES investigation reveals that Mallam Isa Yuguda, has sparked controversy by blocking a formal inquiry into the academic records of one of the leading contenders, Professor Godwin Iornenge Akper.
This development follows a written request by Verbatim Magazine, Nigeria’s foremost investigative publication, seeking clarification on allegations surrounding Prof. Akper’s promotion to professorial rank and his subsequent application for the VC position. The magazine had sought to verify claims that his academic qualifications may not meet the standard requirements for a professorship in a conventional university.
In a response dated September 19, 2025, Yuguda declined the interview request, citing government regulations prohibiting discussions on such matters to protect tertiary institutions from “public opinion trials.” Legal experts have questioned it appears to contravene Nigeria’s Freedom of Information Act.
Academic circles have raised serious concerns about Prof. Akper’ qualifications, which include:
Diploma in Theology (1992)
Master of Arts in Religion (1999)
Master of Theology (2002)
Doctor of Theology (2004)
Postgraduate Diploma in Distance Education (2010)
Critics argue that these qualifications, while substantial in theological training, lack the conventional academic foundation required for professorial elevation—particularly the absence of a recognized first degree (BA/BSc), which is mandatory for academic progression globally.
Furthermore, experts note that a Doctor of Theology (DTh) is generally considered a professional ecclesiastical degree rather than a research-based PhD, which remains the international standard for professorial appointments.
The National Universities Commission’s guidelines explicitly require a first degree and PhD (or equivalent research doctorate) for promotion to professor. NOUN’s own advertisement for the VC position specifically calls for a “good academic PhD,” with no provision for equivalent degrees.
OBSERVERS TIMES can authoritatively report that promoting and potentially advancing Prof. Akper without these foundational credentials, NOUN risks undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s academic system and setting a dangerous precedent that blurs the lines between professional training and scholarly achievement.
Stakeholders are now calling for transparency and adherence to established academic standards as the selection process for NOUN’s next Vice-Chancellor continues.
