UNIZIK rejects FG’s removal of new VC, Registrar, insists it followed approved guidelines

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The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka has opposed the decision to revoke the appointments of R.I. Nwokike, the university’s registrar, and Prof. Benard Odoh, the new vice chancellor.

Amb Greg Mbadiwe, the chairman of the university’s governing council, was notified in writing by the federal ministry of education on Friday that the council’s recent appointments were cancelled because they did not adhere to established protocols.

Mrs. R. Ilyasu, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, signed the letter, which urged the council to put all appointments on hold until the new Minister of Education takes office.

However, Nwokike, the Registrar of the Institution and Secretary of the Governing Council, addressed the ministry’s concerns in a response to the letter.

She said: “Contrary to any assumption of a formal engagement, the Pro-Chancellor did not have an official meeting with the Minister of State for Education. Instead, informal discussions took place between the outgoing Minister of State and the Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.

“In response to concerns regarding the absence of the Ministry’s representative, certain internal council members, and other stakeholders at the Vice-Chancellor appointment meeting on Tuesday, 29th October 2024, we wish to clarify that all necessary protocols were observed. Invitations were duly issued to all relevant parties, ensuring that everyone was informed and given the opportunity to attend.

“The meeting saw participation from representatives of the Federal Character Commission, external and internal Council members, and various other stakeholders, demonstrating a broad representation of interests. For further verification, attached are the attendance register, photographs documenting the proceedings, and copies of the official meeting notice sent to stakeholders.

“Additionally, we confirm that the quorum was duly constituted in compliance with the statutory requirements outlined in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004.

“Due process was meticulously observed throughout the selection and appointment processes for both the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar. The suggestion of “reconciling with aggrieved persons” is not relevant to this procedural integrity.

“Of the 18 applicants for the position, 15 attended the interview, and score sheets were duly documented. The Council, within the scope of its lawful authority, has fulfilled its mandate with transparency and adherence to the University’s regulations.

“We appreciate your attention to these clarifications and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of due process and legal compliance.”

The university community has responded to Odoh’s appointment by the governing council on Tuesday of last week with a range of emotions, including outrage and celebration.

The new vice chancellor’s qualifications were also contested by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which denied that he was qualified and refuted the assertions that he had become a professor.

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