UNN rejects Alex Onyia infrastructure criticism as University of Nigeria Nsukka condemns activist’s remarks on hostel conditions and campus facilities

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State, on Tuesday criticised education advocate Alex Onyia over his recent remarks on the institution’s infrastructure, describing his conduct as misleading and damaging to the university’s public image.

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UNN disputes Alex Onyia infrastructure criticism emerged after the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Agha Egwu Inya, issued a statement alleging that Onyia’s visit to the campus was driven by a predetermined intention to highlight negative conditions within the institution.

According to the statement, Onyia allegedly arrived with a television crew to document the state of facilities, particularly at Eni-Njoku Hall of Residence, despite being invited to deliver a lecture under the Herbert Macaulay Memorial programme organised by his faculty.

The university expressed disappointment over the development, stating that the visit should have focused on intellectual engagement and mentorship rather than public criticism of infrastructure.

Inya further claimed that the university management under Vice Chancellor Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya had already initiated renovation projects for some hostels prior to the controversy.

He also referenced Onyia’s reported comments during a television interview in which the advocate allegedly described parts of the campus environment as “stinking”, a remark the institution described as unfair.

The statement also addressed allegations concerning the alleged eviction of a visually impaired student, noting that such claims had been disputed by other stakeholders, including student representatives.

The university maintained that multiple contradictory accounts surrounding the allegations raised questions about Onyia’s intentions and credibility in making the claims.

It further argued that constructive engagement, rather than public condemnation, would better serve efforts to improve conditions within the institution.

The statement also cited a recent visit by Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, noting that he acknowledged ongoing improvements on campus despite infrastructural challenges typical of public universities.

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UNN pushback on Alex Onyia infrastructure allegations continues to generate debate over accountability, advocacy, and the state of public tertiary institutions in Nigeria.