The Ministry of Education’s University Department has reportedly sacked Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh as Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra state, just six days after his appointment.
In a letter on November 1, 2024 referenced FME/HE/CU/82/302, addressed to the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Council of the university, the ministry declared Odoh’s appointment null and void .
The letter, signed by Mrs. R.G. Ilyasu for the Permanent Secretary, was copied to the Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, and titled “RE: APPOINTMENT OF SUBSTANTIVE VICE CHANCELLOR AND REGISTRAR FOR NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY AWKA.”
It stated that the university council’s actions disregarded constituted authority and extant provisions by appointing a Vice Chancellor without the ministry’s representative, internal council members, and other stakeholders.
The ministry said it had been agreed that there would be no appointments without reconciliation with the aggrieved parties of the school.
The ministry directed the university to put all appointments on hold pending the assumption of duty by the new Minister of Education.
Odoh was appointed on Tuesday, October 29, by the University’s Governing Council, led by the Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, during an interview with the candidates shortlisted for the position of the vice chancellor.
University replies
However, in a letter dated November 1, 2024, while replying the ministry, the Registrar/ Secretary to the Council, UNIZIK, Barr. (Mrs.) R. I. Nwokike, said there was no protocol broken in Odoh’s appointment.
The letter reads in part: “Contrary to any assumption of a formal engagement, the Pro-Chancellor did not have an official meeting with the Minister of State for Education. Instead, informal discussions took place between the outgoing Minister of State and the Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
“It is important to clarify that these discussions do not supersede or alter the enforceability of the court’s judgment. The Council, in discharging its duties, adhered strictly to a valid judgment from a competent court, which directed the Council to exercise its statutory authority in appointing the Vice-Chancellor. Please find attached the court judgment for reference.
“In response to concerns regarding the absence of the Ministry’s representative, certain internal Council members, and other stakeholders at the Vice-Chancellor appointment meeting on Tuesday, 29th October 2024, we wish to clarify that all necessary protocols were observed. Invitations were duly issued to all relevant parties, ensuring that everyone was informed and given the opportunity to attend.
“The meeting saw participation from representatives of the Federal Character Commission, external and internal Council members, and various other stakeholders, demonstrating a broad representation of interests. For further verification, attached are the attendance register, photographs documenting the proceedings, and copies of the official meeting notice sent to stakeholders.
“Additionally, we confirm that the quorum was duly constituted in compliance with the statutory requirements set forth in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004. In accordance with Section 6(a) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Standing Orders of the Governing Council, the quorum requirement mandates the presence of five members, including at least one of the following: the Vice-Chancellor or his Deputy, one appointee of the Visitor, and one appointee of the Senate.
“For reference and validation, please find attached the Council’s constitutional documents and additional information linking these requirements to the University Act. These documents underscore our adherence to procedural integrity and commitment to transparency in the appointment process.
“Due process was meticulously observed throughout the selection and appointment processes for both the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar. The suggestion of “reconciling with aggrieved persons” is not relevant to this procedural integrity.
“Of the eighteen applicants for the position, fifteen attended the interview, and score sheets were duly documented. The Council, within the scope of its lawful authority, has fulfilled its mandate with transparency and adherence to the University’s regulations. Supporting documents on the application and interview process are attached.
“We appreciate your attention to these clarifications and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of due process and legal compliance.”
Similarly, when reached for a reaction, a source at the camp of Prof Odoh said the viral report should be ignored as it is just a propaganda.
“Prof asked that this should be ignored. It’s a hatchet propaganda job to dissuade the faint-hearted. Come this Tuesday, Professor Benard Odoh will assume duty as the 7th Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka,” the source said.
However, a source at the Ministry of Education confirmed the development to our correspondent in a WhatsApp chat, saying simply “it’s true”.
