The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the removal of Dr. Bernard Odoh as the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and the dissolution of the institution’s Governing Council.
The decision follows allegations of illegalities surrounding Odoh’s appointment and breaches of university governance procedures.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry, through its Director of Press and Public Relations, Folashade Boriowo, explained that the move was necessary due to serious violations of university regulations and directives from the Federal Ministry of Education.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had previously accused the university’s Governing Council of bypassing due process in Odoh’s appointment, prompting a demand for the dissolution of the Council.
The union alleged that the appointment was made without proper adherence to the established eligibility criteria.
The Ministry’s statement revealed that the Chairman of the Governing Council had unilaterally appointed Odoh, despite the fact that he did not meet the required qualifications for the position.
This led to widespread unrest within the university community and significant tension among faculty and students.
Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Honourable Minister of Education, expressed concern over the escalating situation, stating that urgent action was needed to prevent further disruption at the university.
He emphasized that the illegal decisions made by the Governing Council had put the institution at risk of further instability.
In addition to Odoh’s removal, the Ministry confirmed that an Acting Vice-Chancellor would be appointed in accordance with the university’s founding act.
A new Governing Council will also be formed to ensure that proper governance practices are restored at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
