November 20, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, effective immediately.
The decision also encompasses the removal of key officials, including Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor, and Mrs. Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike, the registrar.
The Governing Council, led by Ambassador Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, had allegedly appointed Professor Odoh without following due process, sparking controversy and tensions between the university’s Senate and the governing council.
The Federal Government intervened, citing concerns over the council’s disregard for the university’s governing laws in its selection process.
In addition to the dissolution of the Governing Council, President Tinubu also approved the removal of Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami as the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of the governing council of the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State.
Salami’s removal was prompted by his illegal actions, including suspending the Vice-Chancellor without following prescribed procedures. Despite the Federal Ministry of Education’s call to revoke the suspension, Salami refused to comply and resorted to abusive and threatening behavior towards the Ministry’s Directors.
The Federal Government emphasized that university councils are responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of university activities in accordance with each university’s establishing act. President Tinubu warned councils against creating distractions, as his government focuses on enhancing the country’s education standards.
This development follows the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, staging a peaceful protest to stop the selection of the new Vice Chancellor, citing concerns over the selection process.
The protest highlighted the ongoing crisis at the university regarding the selection of a new vice chancellor.
