The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka has firmly rejected a recent directive from the Federal Ministry of Education, which calls for the dissolution of the university’s Governing Council and the removal of Vice-Chancellor Professor Benard Odoh.
AFRIPOST had reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu authorized the dissolution of the university’s council and the dismissal of Odoh upon the Ministry’s recommendation.
A letter signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, alleged that the university had breached certain regulations, including the appointment of an unqualified Vice-Chancellor, which it claims led to disorder on campus.
However, Charles Otu, Media and Publicity Assistant to Professor Odoh, dismissed the Ministry’s actions on Wednesday, labelling them as disruptive and beyond the Ministry’s authority.
Otu referenced the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, LFN 2004, which he said grants only the President, as the institution’s Visitor, the power to dissolve the council or dismiss the Vice-Chancellor.
Otu also argued that the Ministry acted prematurely by failing to consult or inform the affected parties before issuing the directive.
He asserted that Professor Odoh’s appointment was conducted properly and has broad support within the university community.
Furthermore, he accused the Ministry of disregarding the legal process, highlighting ongoing proceedings at the National Industrial Court over Odoh’s appointment, and emphasized that any action while the case is in court is inappropriate.
Contrary to claims of unrest, Otu stated that UNIZIK campuses remain peaceful, with Professor Odoh continuing his responsibilities effectively.
He also questioned the authenticity of the Ministry’s directive, pointing out that it was signed by the Public Relations Director rather than a senior official such as the Permanent Secretary or Minister of Education.
Additionally, he criticized the lack of direct communication with the university’s Governing Council chair, Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe.
Otu urged both the public and university members to remain calm and expressed confidence in a legal resolution to the issue.
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