President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has dissolved the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, and removed the institution’s newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, as well as Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike.
This decision, announced by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, followed allegations of procedural violations in the Vice-Chancellor’s appointment.
The dissolved Governing Council, led by Ambassador Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe and comprising five members, reportedly bypassed due process by appointing an unqualified candidate, prompting federal intervention.
Federal Concerns Over Mismanagement
“The council disregarded governing laws in its selection process, creating tensions within the university,” the statement noted. The Federal Government acted to maintain stability in the 33-year-old institution amid escalating disputes between the Senate and the council.
Further Dismissals in Otukpo University
In a related development, President Tinubu also removed Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State.
Salami was accused of unlawfully suspending the Vice-Chancellor without adhering to due process and refusing to comply with the Federal Ministry of Education’s directives to reverse the action. Reports of “abusive and threatening conduct” towards ministry officials further solidified his removal.
Federal Commitment to Education Standards
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of adherence to due process and professionalism within Nigerian universities, warning against unnecessary disruptions. He reiterated his administration’s focus on improving education standards and restoring stability to the sector.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has called for the appointment of new leadership for both institutions to ensure proper governance and accountability.
