By Solomon Okpo.
Inih Ebong, a 73-year-old associate professor of theatre arts who has battled victimization from the University of Uyo (UniUyo) for over two decades, is now facing a severe health crisis and imminent eviction. The embattled scholar, who was dismissed unjustly in 2002 for exposing corruption at the university, has suffered years of legal battles to reclaim his entitlements, winning multiple court cases—including a December 2024 Court of Appeal ruling that affirmed his unlawful termination. However, UniUyo has yet to reinstate him or pay his accumulated salaries and benefits.
Mr. Ebong, who was diagnosed with cardiac failure in 2020, had shown signs of recovery after receiving financial support for treatment from billionaire philanthropist Femi Otedola. However, his health has recently relapsed, causing significant concern.
On Tuesday, February 25, he told The Evangelist that his condition had worsened. “It is very serious. My two feet are swollen,” he said, struggling to speak through unsteady breathing. He reported persistent stomach pains, difficulty eating, and an inability to sleep due to severe discomfort.
His wife, Uduak, confirmed on Wednesday morning that while he was unable to eat on Tuesday, he managed to have breakfast the following day, suggesting a slight improvement.
Beyond his medical struggles, Mr. Ebong is also on the verge of being evicted from his three-bedroom apartment on the outskirts of Uyo due to his inability to pay the N400,000 annual rent. Having been without a job since his dismissal in 2002, he has been unable to provide for his family.
“The thought of where to get the money for rent has given me serious psychological trauma. I have come to the end of the road. I have no option but to appeal to the public for help,” he said.
Following his illegal dismissal, UniUyo went as far as publishing a disclaimer in Punch newspaper, discouraging other institutions from hiring him. This has left him with no means of livelihood despite his decades of academic experience.
Despite his multiple legal victories, including a 2020 National Industrial Court ruling that ordered UniUyo to reinstate him and pay his entitlements, the university has ignored the orders. The Appeal Court’s ruling in December 2024 upheld his claims, yet no action has been taken.
Since the latest court judgment, Mr. Ebong has written to UniUyo Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, urging compliance with the ruling. The university has remained silent.
When contacted, UniUyo’s spokesperson, Udoro Udo, claimed ignorance of the Appeal Court ruling. “I am not aware of it. You know this has been a protracted case,” he said.
Weighed down by hardship, illness, and emotional distress, Mr. Ebong has made an urgent appeal to Nigerians for assistance.
For those willing to support him, donations can be made to his account: Inih Ebong, Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) 0042760051. He can also be reached at +234-708-625-9709.
His case remains a stark reminder of the challenges faced by whistleblowers and the failure of institutions to uphold justice even in the face of legal mandates.
