The European-American University has confirmed that the honorary doctorate awarded to popular Hausa musician Dauda Kahutu (Rarara) is genuine, dismissing claims that the recognition was fake.
In a statement on Tuesday, Dr. Josephine Egbuta, Head of African Operations at High-Grade Professional Education Centre Ltd—the university’s international partner in Africa—affirmed that the award was legitimate and in line with established protocols.
“Contrary to claims, the honorary doctorate award presented to Rarara is not fake,” Dr. Egbuta said. She noted that the European-American University has partnered with High-Grade Professional Education Centre Ltd since 2008, with her late husband, Professor Williams A. Egbuta, serving as Honorary Coordinator for Africa.
Dr. Egbuta also dismissed assertions by Dr. Luke Okojie of Accolades Communications, who claimed recognition as pro vice chancellor of the university. “He was a resource fellow who printed the brochure for our 2016 convocation held in Togo. His main task was the Accolade book for distinguished personalities. Beyond that, he worked with us as a professional printer,” she explained.
She further clarified that the research fellow who organised the Abuja ceremony where Rarara was honoured followed due process, consulting her with the awardees’ list before proceeding.
To substantiate her claims, Dr. Egbuta shared certificates and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and High-Grade Professional Education Centre Ltd, describing the documents as legally binding.
“No contrary correspondence from the University has been communicated to High-Grade Professional Education Centre Ltd,” she emphasised.
Dr. Egbuta urged the public to disregard reports suggesting that the awards were illegal, reiterating that Rarara and other honorees were duly recognised under the university’s established framework.
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