Buckingham University VC Suspended Amid Allegations of Affair and Misconduct

Buckingham University Vice-Chancellor Professor James Tooley has been suspended amid allegations of misconduct and a romantic relationship with a 25-year-old Indian woman, raised by his estranged Nigerian wife, Cynthia Tooley, prompting an independent investigation.

Professor James Tooley, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Buckingham, has been suspended following allegations of misconduct and a romantic relationship with a 25-year-old Indian woman, raised by his estranged Nigerian wife, Cynthia Tooley.

Cynthia, who married Professor Tooley in February 2022, reportedly submitted the woman’s diaries to university authorities as evidence, prompting an emergency meeting and an independent inquiry into the claims. The couple, now separated, has been communicating through lawyers since their relationship broke down over the summer.

In addition to the affair allegations, Cynthia accused Tooley of possessing a “suspicious object” at his official residence. Police investigated and removed a junior air rifle, but no further action was taken.

Professor Tooley denies the allegations, describing them as “baseless and malicious” through his lawyers, while the Indian woman defended him, asserting that their relationship, which began when she was 25, was consensual and respectful.

The university has confirmed the suspension in a letter to students and appointed an interim leadership team to oversee operations during the investigation. The high-profile fallout has drawn significant public and media attention.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH