Tinubu to Sack UNIZIK Governing Council Over Controversial VC Appointment

President Bola Tinubu is set to dissolve the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, due to the contentious appointment of Bernard Odoh as the university’s vice-chancellor. The appointment has been marred by controversy, with unions and the federal government expressing dissatisfaction.

Controversies Surrounding Odoh’s Appointment

Odoh’s academic profile and appointment have been plagued by irregularities. He claimed to have served as a visiting professor at the Federal University, Gusau, between 2015 and 2017, but the institution and its ASUU chapter refuted this claim ¹. Additionally, the Federal Ministry of Education nullified the appointment, citing irregularities in the selection process and the lack of representation from the ministry and other stakeholders.

Reactions from ASUU and the University

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has deemed Odoh’s appointment, along with that of Registrar Rosemary Nwokike, illegal and a mockery of the university system. The university, however, maintains that the council adhered to a valid court judgment in making the appointment.

Imminent Sack of Governing Council Members

President Tinubu has approved the sack of the university’s Governing Council members, with the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, expected to make the announcement. It remains unclear whether Odoh will continue as vice-chancellor after the sack.

Divided Opinions

Reactions to the development have been mixed, with some seeing it as a necessary step to address the controversies, while others view it as an attempt to exert federal control over the university’s affairs or perpetuate regional marginalization.