A recent windstorm has severely damaged the top floor of the Bassey Asuquo Administrative Block at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), exposing sensitive documents and disrupting operations at the institution.
The storm, which lasted less than 30 minutes, tore off the roof of the Vice Chancellor’s office and parts of the Registry and Audit Units. Although university management attributed the destruction to natural causes, a campus-based advocacy group, the Concerned University Community, is calling for an independent investigation.
In a statement, the group’s spokesperson, Bassey Obono, described the incident as evidence of “deep administrative lapses,” questioning why only one building sustained major damage while similar structures nearby remained intact. “This anomaly demands a thorough probe,” the group said.
The group also raised concerns over the building’s closure for three days before the incident. “Could this closure have been linked to attempts to conceal institutional irregularities?” it asked.
UNICAL is already under scrutiny following protests by staff unions over issues including employment disputes and alleged illegal salary deductions. Obono further alleged that some staff had been denied access to the building, possibly to block legal processes.
University authorities deny any wrongdoing, stating that emergency measures are being taken to secure the premises and protect documents. “Necessary measures are being taken to ensure safety, restore operations, and protect sensitive documents,” the institution said.
Despite these assurances, pressure continues to mount for a transparent probe. “The circumstances surrounding this incident raise questions that should not be ignored,” Obono said.
Source: Guardian
