Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) Professor Florence Obi, has called for calm amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the non-induction of the institution’s 2016 dentistry graduates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Speaking during a televised interview, Obi addressed concerns from students and parents, some of whom have reported feelings of distress and despair over the delay in induction. She assured them that efforts are underway to resolve the issue within the coming months.
“I want to appeal to the students and parents to remain calm. I have read reports of students becoming depressed and even threatening suicide. On my honour, we will work with the MDCN to find a solution,” she said.
Obi revealed plans to petition the Minister of Health for intervention, emphasizing the need to employ critical staff as required by the MDCN for clearance purposes. “Once we have the necessary staff employed and meet MDCN’s conditions, we aim to hold the induction within one to two months,” she added.
The Vice Chancellor explained that the root of the problem lies in overadmission: while MDCN’s directive approved only 10 dentistry students, the university admitted 60, creating a compliance issue.
UNICAL is actively exploring alternative solutions, including collaborating with other university programmes to accommodate the affected students. “We may not have a definitive solution yet, but we are hopeful to secure ministerial support soon to address the matter,” she stated.
Professor Obi also disclosed that internal investigations are underway to hold accountable those responsible for the overadmission, including the dean, admission officer, and provost. “We will invoke the university’s internal mechanisms to ensure consequences are meted out,” she said.
When asked if she accepted responsibility for the crisis, the Vice Chancellor affirmed, “As the head of the institution, I take full responsibility even for issues I inherited.”
Expressing personal anguish over the situation, she acknowledged the emotional toll it has taken but reiterated her commitment to resolving the matter.
Meanwhile, the affected students have staged protests, demanding urgent resolution to the protracted non-induction saga.
