A fierce dispute has erupted over the leadership of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, as the sacked Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bernard Odoh, insists that the Federal Ministry of Education lacked the authority to terminate his appointment. Odoh, who assumed office on October 29, 2024, faces allegations of procedural breaches and falsified academic records, leading to his removal on November 1.
Odoh’s appointment by the university’s Governing Council sparked widespread controversy, prompting President Bola Tinubu to dissolve the council, citing gross violations of due process. The announcement came on November 20, through Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The Ministry’s Allegations
The Federal Ministry of Education accused the Governing Council, chaired by Greg Mbadiwe, of appointing an unqualified candidate without following proper procedures. The ministry’s memo highlighted the absence of key stakeholders, including ministry representatives, during the selection process. Odoh’s academic profile became a focal point, with claims that he served as a visiting professor at the Federal University, Gusau (FUGUS), between July 2015 and October 2017. However, both FUGUS and its Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) chapter refuted the claims.
The ministry’s concerns were echoed by the national ASUU, which labeled Odoh’s appointment and the simultaneous appointment of Rosemary Nwokike as Registrar “a mockery of the university system.” ASUU President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, described the recruitment process as flawed from the outset, citing irregularities from the advertisement stage to the final selection.
Odoh Defends Appointment
Odoh has consistently maintained that his appointment adhered to a valid court ruling granting the Governing Council the authority to appoint a Vice-Chancellor. Through his spokesperson, Charles Otu, he accused the ministry of usurping presidential powers, asserting that only President Tinubu has the constitutional right to remove him.
He questioned the authenticity of the ministry’s letter, which was signed by a public relations director rather than a senior government official. “This casts serious doubt on the letter’s legitimacy and the intentions behind it,” Odoh stated. He also alleged that the ministry was acting on behalf of “fifth columnists” intent on destabilizing the institution.
Legal Battles and Court Intervention
Odoh pointed to ongoing legal disputes at the National Industrial Court in Awka, where multiple lawsuits challenge his removal. He criticized the ministry for preempting the court’s judgment, describing the action as a violation of judicial processes. “Why is the ministry desperate to usurp the powers of the judiciary when the issues are already before a competent court?” he asked.
He further denied allegations that his academic qualifications were questionable, insisting that all relevant documents had been made public.
University Governance in Turmoil
The university community has been thrown into disarray, with stakeholders divided over the leadership crisis. The Governing Council, through its Registrar, R.I. Nwokike, defended its decision, stating that it adhered to a court directive empowering it to appoint the Vice-Chancellor. However, the Federal Ministry of Education dismissed this claim, citing irregularities in the process.
Odoh’s refusal to vacate office has added to the tension. He vowed to remain in his position until a court ruling determines the legality of his removal. “We call on all parties to respect the rule of law and allow the courts to resolve this matter,” he said.
Timeline of Events
October 29, 2024: Bernard Odoh appointed Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK.
November 1, 2024: Federal Ministry of Education nullifies Odoh’s appointment and dissolves the Governing Council.
November 20, 2024: Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga announces the dissolution of the council, citing illegalities in the appointment process.
What’s Next for UNIZIK?
The crisis has raised questions about governance and accountability in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. Stakeholders have called for transparency and adherence to due process to restore stability. As legal battles continue, the university community awaits a resolution that will chart a new course for its leadership.
