BREAKING: UNIZIK Defies FG, says New VC, Registrar Appointments Stand

Korede Abdullah in Lagos

The governing council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, the university’s management has rejected federal government’s decision sacking its new Vice Chancellor and registrar.

The Federal Ministry of Education had cancelled the recent appointments made by citing non-compliance with existing guidelines.

In a letter addressed to the council’s chairman, Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, the ministry expressed concerns over the appointment of the university’s new Vice Chancellor, Prof. Benard Odoh, and Registrar, R.I. Nwokike.

The letter, signed by Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. R. Ilyasu, directed the council to put all appointments on hold until the new Minister of Education assumes office.

But in a reply to the letter, the Registrar of the Institution and Secretary of the Governing Council, Nwokike responded to the points raised by the ministry.

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 Registrar and Secretary of the Governing Council, Nwokike, responding to the concerns raised by the ministry.

The university’s governing council composition includes the chairman, representatives from various interests, alumni, and senior staff members.

The cancellation of appointments has sparked tension, highlighting the complexities of university governance and the balance of power between institutions and government ministries.

Since Tuesday last week when the governing council appointed Odoh, there have been mixed reactions of jubilation and protest among members of the university community.

Africa Health Report Correspondent gathered on Sunday that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had also protested the credentials of the new Vice Chancellor, contending that he was not qualified, disputing the claims that he had ascended to the position of a professor.