The University of Maroua is currently at the center of a controversy regarding the selection of students for the first year of PhD programs. While the university administration assures the regularity of the process, voices are being raised to denounce irregularities and a lack of transparency.
The Rector of the University of Maroua issued a statement on February 20, 2026, asserting that the selection procedure is free from any irregularities. According to him, the list of candidates published online is only a preliminary step, a technical validation of the submitted files. The scientific evaluation of the files, the age of the candidates, the promotion of gender equality, the academic background, the research project, and proof of funding are then examined by the Doctoral Training Units. The authentication of diplomas, for its part, is the exclusive responsibility of the institutions that issued them. The Rector insists on the transparency and integrity of the process.
However, Baba Bikkoy, known as Mota, contests this version of events, denouncing what he considers a "bureaucratic evasion". In a critically toned letter, he asserts that semantics cannot mask the underlying problems and cites the case of a certain "Salamana" as an example of favoritism. The presence of this name on the list of selected candidates would call into question the credibility of the selection process and the commitment of supervisors. Bikkoy believes that calling this indignation "delusional" would amount to disregarding candidates who respect the rules and institutionalizing opacity.
This controversy has taken on particular significance with the candidacy of MP Salmana Amadou Ali, whose file is being closely scrutinized. Questions are being raised as to whether his application complies with standard requirements, particularly regarding diplomas and endorsement of his application. Some question the validity of his previous degrees, fueling a wave of indignation among students.
Two visions are therefore opposed: that of a regular and transparent procedure, and that of a potentially biased system where academic merit is relegated to the background. Beyond the technical aspects, it is trust in the university institution that is at stake. The outcome of this case could have significant consequences for the credibility of the University of Maroua and the perception of the integrity of the Cameroonian education system.
The case highlights the challenges faced by Cameroonian universities, torn between the need to ensure the transparency and fairness of procedures and political and social pressures.
