BREAKING: UNIZIK Rejects FG’s Removal Of New VC, Registrar

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has firmly rejected the federal government’s annulment of the appointments of its new Vice Chancellor, Professor Benard Odoh, and Registrar, R.I. Nwokike.

Naija News earlier reported that on Friday, the Federal Ministry of Education communicated to the university’s governing council chairman, Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, stating that the recent appointments did not adhere to the established protocols.

The correspondence, signed on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. R. Ilyasu, requested the council to pause all appointments until the new Minister of Education takes office.

In response, the university’s Registrar and Secretary of the Governing Council, Nwokike, addressed the ministry’s concerns directly.

She clarified, “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.”

Nwokike further emphasized that the meeting constituted a quorum, as mandated by the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004, and confirmed that due process was rigorously maintained throughout the selection and appointment of both the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar.

“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,” Nwokike concluded.

Since the appointment of Professor Odoh the previous week, reactions within the university community have been mixed, ranging from celebrations to protests.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has also raised concerns regarding the qualifications of the new Vice Chancellor, questioning his credentials and disputing claims regarding his status as a professor.