Inih Ebong, a former associate professor of Theatre Arts at the University of Uyo (UniUyo), has passed away at the age of 73. Ebong was dismissed from UniUyo in 2002 after persistently criticizing the university’s administration over alleged corruption and maladministration. Despite multiple court victories affirming the illegality of his dismissal, including a Court of Appeal ruling in December 2024, the university failed to reinstate him or pay his entitlements. ……CONTINUE READING
Ebong’s prolonged unemployment left him struggling financially, impacting his ability to afford medical treatment. Diagnosed with cardiac failure in October 2020, he received assistance from philanthropist Femi Otedola, who funded his treatment. Although he showed signs of recovery, his health deteriorated again in early 2025, leading to his admission to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in March. He passed away in the early hours of April 16, 2025.
Ebong’s death has reignited discussions on academic freedom and the treatment of outspoken scholars in Nigeria. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong previously stated, “It would be a shame… if Dr. Inih Ebong dies without getting justice.”
