UNIZIK rejects Federal Ministry’s directive on VC, governing council

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has strongly opposed a recent directive from the Federal Ministry of Education concerning the alleged dissolution of its Governing Council and the removal of Vice-Chancellor, Professor Benard Odoh.

According to Naija News, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had reportedly approved the directive, which authorized the Ministry to dissolve the university’s Governing Council and terminate Odoh’s appointment.

The directive, outlined in a letter signed by Boriowo Folasade, the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, accused the university of breaching regulations and disregarding federal directives. It further alleged that the Governing Council appointed an unqualified Vice-Chancellor, leading to unrest and disorder within the institution.

In response, Charles Otu, Media and Publicity Assistant to Professor Odoh, released a statement on Wednesday dismissing the Ministry’s actions as “mischievous” and an attempt to disrupt the university’s activities.

Otu argued that the Ministry had exceeded its authority, citing the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, LFN 2004, which vests the President, as the institution’s Visitor, with exclusive powers to dissolve its Governing Council or remove the Vice-Chancellor. He also criticized the Ministry for acting without consulting or interrogating the affected parties.

He maintained that Professor Odoh’s appointment adhered to due process and enjoyed widespread support among stakeholders. Furthermore, Otu accused the Ministry of contempt of court, pointing to ongoing legal proceedings at the National Industrial Court regarding the Vice-Chancellor’s appointment. He stated that the sub judice status of the case rendered the Ministry’s actions premature and inappropriate.

Otu also refuted claims of unrest at the university, asserting that its campuses remain peaceful and that Professor Odoh continues to fulfill his duties effectively.

Questioning the legitimacy of the Ministry’s letter, he noted its unusual signing by the Public Relations Director rather than the Permanent Secretary or Minister of Education. Additionally, he criticized the lack of direct communication with the chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe.

Otu called for calm within the university community and urged the matter to be resolved through judicial means.