Originally built for domestic staff and dependents of senior employees, the BQs have sparked disputes as management began reallocating them to junior staff. 

An anonymous senior staff member reported that university security and the Security and Technical Services Department (SAT) forcibly entered several BQs, ejecting occupants’ belongings, including those of staff on sabbatical or official duties.

“It’s unfair. If I pay for the main house, I should control the BQ for my dependents or help. Some colleagues returned to find their doors broken and items thrown out,” the source said, calling the actions unacceptable in an academic setting.

Another senior staff member, also speaking anonymously, labeled the evictions as high-handed and warned of potential unrest if unresolved. 

“Are we expected to have our house helps sleep in our bedrooms now?” they questioned.

UNICAL’s spokesperson, Mr. Eyo Effiong, defended the evictions, stating they followed due process to address junior staff housing shortages and curb unethical practices. 

He revealed that the Governing Council ordered staff to vacate the BQs by April 30, 2025, after discovering that many were rented to students and outsiders for ₦80,000 to ₦350,000 annually, far exceeding the lower fees paid to the university.

“This was embarrassing and unethical. Investigations also uncovered security risks, including a case where a BQ occupant aided kidnappers,” Effiong said.

The reclaimed BQs will now be allocated to junior staff through the university’s housing department to ensure transparency and proper rent deductions. 

Effiong clarified that the policy targets all staff misusing the facilities, not just professors, and urged those with complaints to approach the Governing Council.