The European American University has disowned a purported convocation ceremony held on Saturday at the NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja, describing the event as fraudulent and unauthorised.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the university expressed shock over media reports claiming it held a convocation in Nigeria’s capital. It categorically denied organising or approving any such event, adding that the individuals behind the gathering misrepresented themselves and had no authority to act on its behalf.
“The university has not authorised any convocation to be held at this location today. This event was fraudulently organised without our knowledge or consent. The individuals involved falsely claimed to represent European American University and have no legitimate affiliation with us,” the statement read.
The institution also disclaimed conferring any honorary degrees on those reportedly honoured at the event, including popular musician Dauda Kahutu Rarara, Alhaji Ahmed Saleh Jnr., Mustapha Abdullahi Bujawa, and Tarela Boroh.
“All legitimate degree holders are listed in the official Register of Graduates available on the university’s website. These individuals are not recognised honorands of European American University,” it added.
The university further disclaimed one Musari Audu Isyaku, who was cited in media reports as the “Northern Nigeria representative” of the institution.
“This person holds no such position and has no authority to speak or act on behalf of the university,” it said.
Similarly, the institution refuted claims that one Idris Aliyu, who reportedly represented the Vice Chancellor at the event, is a member of its governing council. It clarified that the university does not operate a governing council and that Mr Aliyu, who was previously appointed a Fellow with professorial status in Financial Management in 2024, has had his appointment revoked with immediate effect due to his involvement in the fraudulent activity.
The university also reminded the public that its former Vice Chancellor, Dr Mrs Josephine Egbuta, who was dismissed earlier this year, no longer holds any authority to represent the institution in any capacity.
The current Vice Chancellor of the university, according to the statement, is Professor Luca Scotto di Tella de’ Douglas di Castel di Ripa.
Addressing questions over its legal status, the institution noted that it is currently registered as a non-profit private university in France and also holds a Royal Charter of Incorporation from the Kingdom of Bunyoro Kitara in Uganda.
It dismissed reports suggesting affiliations with Dominica and Panama as referencing “expired past authorities that were never concurrent.”
The university warned members of the public against engaging with unauthorised persons and vowed to pursue legal action.
“We will be contacting the appropriate legal authorities in Nigeria to halt the issuance of fake certificates and bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement concluded.
