Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has objected to a recent letter by the Federal Ministry of Education, imploring it to dissolve its Governing Council and remove its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Benard Odoh.
The letter signed by the ministry's Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriwo Folasade, cited alleged violations of university rules and disregard for instructions as the reasons for the decision.
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The ministry claimed that the Governing Council has appointed an ineligible Vice-Chancellor, which has led to tension and breakdown of order within the institution.
In a detailed response issued on BHT, November 20, 2024, Charles Otu, Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity to the embattled Vice-Chancellor, described the ministry's actions as a “mischievous” attempt to destabilize the university.
The statement questioned the ministry's authority to dissolve the Governing Council and remove the Vice-Chancellor, citing provisions of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, LFN 2004, which reserves such powers for the President as Visitor of the University.
UNIZIK argued that the ministry's actions bypassed proper channels, as Governing Council members and the Vice-Chancellor were not formally questioned or informed. The university said Professor Odoh's appointment followed due process and has been widely accepted by stakeholders.
The university accused the ministry of contempt of court, as several lawsuits related to the appointment of the vice-chancellor are currently before the National Industrial Court.
UNIZIK stressed that the matter is sub judice, making the ministry's action premature and inappropriate.
Contrary to the ministry's claims of a “breakdown of law and order”, the university said its campuses are peaceful and Professor Odoh is discharging his duties effectively without any rancor.
The statement questioned the authenticity of the letter, noting that it was signed by a public relations director rather than a permanent secretary or the education minister.
It also criticized the absence of formal communication with the Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe.
The university urged the public and its community to remain calm, and stressed that the courts should determine the legality of the actions taken by the ministry.
“May peace continue to reign supreme in our prestigious citadel of education,” the statement concluded.
The University reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and called for a speedy resolution of the matter through judicial processes.
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