ARISE News has suspended political analyst Anthony Kila from its platforms following allegations surrounding his professorial title and academic qualifications.
The television network announced the decision on Tuesday, October 13, after an investigation by PREMIUM TIMES raised questions about Kila’s claim to a professorial title and the authenticity of several degrees he reportedly claimed to have obtained from institutions in the United Kingdom and Italy.
In a statement issued by its Editorial Board, ARISE News said it had contacted Kila on October 3 to give him an opportunity to respond to the allegations. However, according to the network, he requested additional time but had yet to provide a response 10 days later.
The broadcaster said it had taken the findings of the investigation seriously and decided that Kila would no longer appear on any of its platforms, either immediately or in the future.
The network also stated that it was unaware of the allegations when Kila previously appeared on its programmes as a freelance political analyst.
ARISE News said its decision was informed by the seriousness of the claims and its commitment to maintaining credibility and integrity in its journalism.
The controversy followed a PREMIUM TIMES investigation published on October 3, which questioned Kila’s longstanding claim to be a professor and a Jean Monnet Professor of Strategy and Development.
The publication subsequently released another investigation on October 10, alleging discrepancies in his claimed bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as other academic qualifications.
According to the reports, some institutions contacted during the investigation disputed aspects of his claims, while others cited privacy restrictions that prevented them from confirming his academic records.
Kila had previously maintained that he was a professor and stood by his academic and professional credentials. He also said he had instructed his lawyers to review the publication of the allegations and advise him on possible legal steps to protect his reputation.
The controversy has triggered further scrutiny of Kila’s professional standing. Michael and Cecilia Ibru University in Delta State, where he served as pro-chancellor, had earlier removed his profile and photographs from its website following the initial report.
The latest development adds ARISE News to the institutions and organisations taking action or reviewing their association with Kila amid the unresolved questions surrounding his academic credentials.
Kila’s response to ARISE News’ latest announcement was not included in the statement reported by the network.
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