The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has cautioned media organisations and online publishers against presenting unproven cybercrime allegations against its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, as established facts, warning that those found culpable could face legal action.
The university expressed concern that repeated publications linking its Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers to alleged cybercrime offences could mislead the public and damage the institution’s reputation.
In a statement issued signed by the Registrar, Mufutau A. Ibrahim, the university maintained that no court had convicted Ogunwole of hacking electronic devices, intercepting private communications or altering electronic information.
FUOYE stressed that it was not opposed to media scrutiny or legitimate investigations but insisted that journalists and publishers must uphold the principles of fairness, accuracy and responsible reporting by clearly distinguishing allegations from established facts.
The institution explained that the controversy stemmed from an audio recording that had circulated publicly before coming to the attention of university authorities.
According to the management, the recording was neither produced nor circulated by the university but subsequently became an administrative matter, prompting requests for explanations from individuals connected with the issue.
It maintained that the Vice-Chancellor acted strictly in his official capacity and was not involved in the unlawful acquisition or manipulation of the recording.
The university further warned that publications failing to distinguish between allegations and proven facts could inflict lasting damage on the reputation of individuals and institutions.
While acknowledging the media’s responsibility to hold public institutions accountable, FUOYE said such responsibility must be exercised with fairness, professionalism and respect for the rule of law.
The management disclosed that its legal representatives were reviewing the publications and would formally request clarification from the publishers concerned.
It also advised the publishers to preserve relevant documents, communications and source materials used in preparing the reports.
The university warned that publishers who failed to provide credible evidence or satisfactory explanations could face civil proceedings and, where permitted by law, criminal processes.
Despite the development, FUOYE reiterated its willingness to cooperate with lawful investigations by relevant authorities, assuring students, staff and the general public that it remained focused on its academic and institutional responsibilities.
The management added that it would continue to protect the university’s reputation through lawful means.
