Less than two years after the formal opening of Wigwe University in Isiokpo, Rivers State, the institution has found itself at the centre of a growing labour dispute, with several former employees accusing the management of arbitrary dismissals, intimidation and poor workplace practices, allegations the university has firmly denied.
The disagreement has sparked fresh debate over staff welfare and administrative accountability in Nigeria’s emerging private university sector, particularly at an institution established to honour the educational vision of the late banker and philanthropist, Herbert Wigwe.
Findings indicate that the controversy revolves around claims by former academic and non-academic staff who alleged that a number of employees either had their appointments terminated or chose to resign after what they described as an increasingly difficult working environment. Documents reviewed by Sunday PUNCH reportedly showed that about 30 members of staff left the university through resignations or terminations within the period under review.
Among those who spoke publicly was the university’s former librarian, Dr Nonyelum Okechukwu, who said she received a notice terminating her appointment despite not being invited before any disciplinary committee or informed of any misconduct. She maintained that the decision came unexpectedly and left her worried about its impact on her professional reputation and future employment opportunities.
Another former employee, Amarachi Ogbennia, also alleged that her appointment ended abruptly after less than a year in service. According to accounts from affected workers, some employees believed they were removed without sufficient explanation, while others claimed an atmosphere of fear discouraged staff from expressing concerns about administrative decisions.
The former employees further alleged that the institution’s internal management style contributed to declining staff morale, claiming that decisions affecting employees were often taken without adequate consultation or established disciplinary procedures. Some also argued that the frequent departure of personnel had affected institutional stability during the university’s formative years.
Wigwe University, however, rejected the allegations, insisting that its employment practices comply with applicable labour regulations and institutional policies. The university maintained that staff exits resulted from legitimate administrative processes, voluntary resignations and performance-related considerations rather than arbitrary dismissals.
The institution also disputed suggestions of intimidation or administrative high-handedness, explaining that it remains committed to building a world-class academic environment founded on professionalism, excellence, integrity and accountability. Management stressed that personnel decisions are made in accordance with established procedures designed to protect both the institution and its workforce.
Founded by the late Herbert Wigwe, former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, the university was conceived as a globally competitive institution focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership development and practical education. Wigwe died in a helicopter crash in the United States in February 2024, months before the university officially commenced academic activities, leaving many to closely watch how his educational vision would evolve under new leadership.
The unfolding dispute has drawn attention because the university remains one of Nigeria’s newest private institutions and has consistently promoted itself as a destination for international-standard learning. The disagreement between management and former employees is therefore expected to attract continued public interest as both sides maintain contrasting accounts of events.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no indication that either party had initiated formal legal proceedings over the allegations, but the dispute has intensified discussions about workplace governance, employee rights and institutional leadership within Nigeria’s higher education sector.
