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The Federal University Gusau in Zamfara State has denied any academic affiliation with Bernard Odoh, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. This follows claims regarding Odoh’s professorship at Federal University Gusau in 2015.
In a letter dated October 28, 2024, in response to an inquiry from Kingsley Awuka Esq., the university stated, “Our records show that Dr. Ifeanyi Bernard Odoh never a staff nor a pioneer Head of the Department of Geology. Never shown up in the Department or though (sic) any course(s).”
This communication was issued by Mal. Shehu Suleiman, Senior Staff Officer for the Registrar.
The situation is further complicated by the Federal Ministry of Education’s recent declaration, which invalidated Odoh’s appointment as Vice-Chancellor, citing procedural violations.
In a letter from the ministry, dated November 1, it was noted, “It has come to the attention of the Ministry that your Council had gone ahead to appoint a Vice Chancellor for the University without the Representative of the Ministry, the internal council members and other Stakeholders.”
The ministry instructed the university to halt all appointments pending the new minister’s assumption of duty.
Odoh’s appointment occurred during an interview by the Governing Council led by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe on October 29, 2024.
However, reports says his candidacy has been supported by influential politicians within the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite questions regarding his qualifications.
Notably, a document indicated that Odoh, promoted to Associate Professor in 2022, has not held significant administrative roles such as Head of Department or Dean, nor has he supervised any PhD candidates.
According to sources at UNIZIK, candidates for the vice-chancellor role typically must have spent at least ten years as a full professor.
One source stated, “Sadly and typical with corrupt practices, there are said to be unholy plans to foist Dr. Ben Ifeanyi Odoh… who is presently not qualified to become a full professor as at the time.”
Additionally, it was argued that Odoh’s designation as a visiting professor at Federal University Gusau in 2014 does not meet the criteria for his current professorship status.
“Even the salary he collects is that of a reader, as at now,” noted a source, emphasizing the discrepancy between his listed title and actual qualifications.
