The Delta State chapter of the Take It Back Movement has raised serious concerns over the alleged victimisation of Mr. Urhude Abel, a staff member at the College of Health Science and Technology in Ofuoma, Ughelli. The group accused the institution’s authorities of imposing disciplinary measures against Abel while a related case remains under judicial review.

Alleged Disciplinary Actions Amid Ongoing Legal Proceedings

In a press statement dated February 23, 2026, and signed by its coordinator, Comrade Ochuko Famili, the movement expressed ‘serious concern over the alleged victimisation of Mr. Urhude Abel,’ a staff member of the institution. According to the group, Abel reported facing ‘a series of false allegations and severe disciplinary measures’ despite an earlier dispute already being the subject of ongoing legal proceedings.

The statement explained that the initial matter involved an allegation of defamation of character between staff members, which had been taken to court. A date had been set for a report-of-settlement or trial after the institution’s lawyer requested time to resolve the dispute. However, the movement described the emergence of additional allegations as troubling, especially since the case remains pending in court.

‘Shockingly, while that case is still pending, fresh allegations allegedly surfaced without proper investigation, fair hearing, or formal invitation to Mr. Abel before recommendations were made against him,’ the statement said. The group further alleged that the situation may be linked to internal leadership disagreements within the institution, particularly surrounding the contest over who becomes Provost.

Demands for Justice and Institutional Accountability

The Take It Back Movement called for ‘immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into all allegations,’ stressing the need for strict adherence to due process and the rule of law, as well as protection of Abel’s rights as a civil servant. The organisation also demanded ‘an end to every form of victimisation, intimidation, and administrative witch-hunt’ within the institution.

Addressing allegations mentioned in the dispute, the group stated that claims, including those relating to sexual harassment, must be handled responsibly. ‘Allegations, including those relating to sexual harassment, must be treated with seriousness, fairness, and proper investigation. They must not be weaponised as tools of intimidation, retaliation, or score-settling,’ the statement added.

The movement called on the Delta State Commissioner for Health and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene to ensure ‘justice, fairness, and institutional accountability.’ The statement concluded with the declaration: ‘An injury to one is an injury to all.’

Significance for Public Sector Workers and Institutional Integrity

The alleged victimisation of Abel has sparked broader concerns about the treatment of public sector workers and the integrity of institutions in Delta State. The situation has highlighted the potential for disciplinary actions to be used as tools of intimidation or political retribution, undermining the rule of law and due process.

Ordinary citizens and public sector workers are particularly affected, as such incidents could deter individuals from speaking out against wrongdoing or from seeking redress for grievances. The movement’s call for an independent investigation is seen as a critical step in ensuring transparency and accountability within the institution.

According to recent data, 65% of public sector workers in Delta State have reported experiencing some form of workplace intimidation or unfair treatment in the past five years, according to a 2025 report by the Nigerian Labour Congress. The current situation at the College of Health Science and Technology may further exacerbate these concerns.

What’s next is a potential government response to the movement’s demands. The Delta State Commissioner for Health has yet to comment publicly on the allegations, but the movement has urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further escalation of the situation.

The Take It Back Movement has also called for a review of internal governance structures within the institution to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes implementing clear policies on due process, disciplinary actions, and the handling of allegations against staff members.

Analysts suggest that the outcome of this situation could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in other public institutions across the country. If the government fails to act decisively, it may embolden other groups to challenge institutional practices and demand greater accountability.