The nomination of Associate Professor Timothy Yangien Ornguga as a commissioner in Benue State has ignited a storm of public outrage, with former students and civil society organisations urging the State House of Assembly to suspend his confirmation over serious allegations of psychological abuse, unethical conduct, and abuse of authority.
Dr. Ornguga, a former lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Benue State University, is accused of fostering a toxic and demoralising academic environment. A petition submitted to the Assembly paints a disturbing picture of a man who allegedly weaponised his position to humiliate and psychologically manipulate students.
The petition cites multiple incidents, including one where students were penalised during assessment exercises for failing to spell his full Tiv name correctly — including the middle name Yangien.
According to petitioners, this had no bearing on their academic knowledge but was a tool for intimidation, particularly targeting non-Tiv students. In another instance, Ornguga reportedly boasted about intentionally failing students and sharing the experience proudly with his spouse.
“His classroom was a place of fear and emotional distress,” one former student recalled. “You didn’t learn the law — you learned how to survive psychological warfare.”
The outcry has been amplified on social media platforms, especially Facebook, where former students have recounted similar experiences under Ornguga’s supervision.
Many described his teaching style as cruel, unprofessional, and sadistic — leading to long-term emotional scars and mental health struggles.
The petition calls for an immediate suspension of his confirmation and demands that an independent panel be set up to investigate the allegations. In addition, the petitioners urge the Assembly to mandate a comprehensive psychological evaluation of Dr. Ornguga to determine his suitability for both public office and continued academic instruction.
“Benue deserves leaders with empathy, integrity, and a sense of justice — not individuals whose track record in the classroom reflects a pattern of humiliation and emotional manipulation,” the petition reads.
Citing precedent, the petition references a 2016 case in Kaduna State where a nominee was dropped after similar concerns over abusive academic conduct emerged. Petitioners insist that ethical screening processes for political appointees must be strengthened to prevent individuals with abusive histories from holding public office.
The statement concludes with a strong appeal to the Assembly:
> “The people of Benue State will be directly impacted by the leadership decisions made today. Civil servants, legal professionals, students, and every citizen who depends on a humane and accountable public service are at risk. Uphold the principles of justice and ensure that individuals with a history of cruelty and sadistic behaviour are not empowered to lead.”
As public scrutiny intensifies, pressure is mounting on the Benue State House of Assembly to act decisively and transparently. The fate of Dr. Ornguga’s confirmation now hangs in the balance.
