- The institution’s management, however, rejected the decision of the ministry on the council’s recent appointments, insisting they did not follow existing guidelines
The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka has expressed its dissatisfaction with the decision of the Federal Government on the appointments of the new Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof Benard Odoh.
The federal ministry of education had on Friday written to the chairman of the governing council of the university, Amb Greg Mbadiwe, voiding the appointment of Odoh and the University’s new Registrar, R.I Nwokike.
The institution’s management, however, rejected the position of the ministry on the council’s recent appointments, insisting they did not follow existing guidelines.
The letter which was signed on behalf of the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs R. Ilyasu had urged the council to cancel all appointments until the new Minister of Education assumes office.
But in a reply to the letter, the Registrar of the Institution and Secretary of the Governing Council, Nwokike responded to the points raised by the ministry.
She said: “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.
“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 outlined in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004.
“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 18 applicants for the position, 15 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.
“We appreciate your attention to these clarifications and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of due process and legal compliance.”
Since Tuesday last week when the governing council appointed Odoh, there have been mixed reactions of jubilation and protest among members of the university community.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had also protested the credentials of the new Vice Chancellor, contending that he was not qualified, disputing the claims that he had ascended to the position of a professor