The Pro-Chancellor of Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Prof. Anthony Kila, has debunked a Premium Times publication labelling him a “fake professor,” describing it as false and injurious to his reputation.
In a statement issued on October 4, 2026, in response to the report published on October 3, Kila insisted he is a professor and stands by the academic and professional credentials backing the title.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I am a professor, and I stand by the title and the professional and academic credentials on which it is based,” he stated.
The Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) Director said the report showed an incomplete understanding of the nature and institutional basis of his professorship.
He said the facts and documents relating to his professorial status would be made public, stressing that the label “fake professor” was presented as a fact that requires proof and carries grave reputational consequences.
Kila, who is also Pro-Chancellor of the Delta State-based university, said while the media has a duty to scrutinise public figures, such scrutiny must be anchored on fairness and facts.
He expressed surprise at the attention the report generated, noting that he is not a political office holder, is not seeking to become one, and is not a government official.
He appreciated colleagues, students, friends and members of the public who have reached out to him to affirm confidence in his credentials since the report was published.
According to him, he has briefed his lawyers to review the publication and its circulation and to advise on appropriate legal steps to protect his professional standing.
“The facts and documentation will speak for themselves,” he added.
