Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State, has raised the alarm over what it describes as the growing dictatorial tendencies of the institution’s Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Amb. Greg Mbadiwe.
The Union claimed that the Pro-chancellor is attempting to undermine institutional processes with a plot to foist already predetermined candidates into key positions in the university including that of the Vice-Chancellor.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the Union on Tuesday, ASUU NAU Chairperson, Comrade Kingsley Ubaoj, warned that the Pro-Chancellor’s alarming dictatorial tendencies, if unchecked, might breach industrial peace in the University.
“We bring to your attention, very worrying developments threatening to engulf our University. From all indications, certain external political forces are determined to subvert due process in the appointment of principal officers in our beloved Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
“ASUU as the major stakeholder in the university system cannot stand aloof as a hallowed institution like the Senate is rubbished on the altar of some individuals’ overvolting ambitions.
“It is no longer news that the Pro Chancellor is displaying alarming dictatorial tendencies which if unchecked may breach industrial peace in the University.”
Ubaoji said since the inauguration of the University’s Council on 4th July 2024, the Pro-Chancellor has persistently ignored due process, acting unilaterally in critical decision-making matters, including appointments and Council activities. These actions, he noted, undermine the principles of collective governance and accountability in the institution.
Citing section 2(1) of the Universities Miscellaneous Provisions Amendment Act 2023, on Composition of Council, Ubaoji pointed out that the Chairman has made unilateral decisions without full composition of Council, including representatives from the Senate, Congregation, and Convocation.
He also noted that the Pro-Chancellor, without waiting for the full composition, proceeded with major decisions, including appointing an Acting Vice-Chancellor and advertising for the position of Registrar.
Ubaoji maintained that ASUU NAU wrote to the Pro-Chancellor on September 10, 2024, requesting proper composition of the Council before proceeding with any business.
“Despite this, the Pro-Chancellor continued to act unilaterally, directing the publication of the Vice Chancellor vacancy in the Vanguard newspaper on September 12, 2024. This move was strongly objected to by ASUU through a letter dated September 14, 2024.
“The University Senate, during its meeting on October 16, 2024, expressed great reservations over the Pro-Chancellor’s dictatorial disposition and the eligibility criteria for the Vice Chancellor position.
“Senate members noted that the criteria seemed tailored to favour a specific individual, rather than attracting a diverse range of qualified candidates. The Senate deferred nominations and called for a review of the criteria, requesting a joint meeting with the Council.”
Ubaoji continued: “Pro-chancellor has disregarded the concerns of Council members, particularly representatives of the internal constituencies of Senate, Congregation, and Convocation. The Pro-Chancellor’s disregard for institutional processes and procedures undermines the collective decision-making process.
“The eligibility criteria listed in the advertisement for Vice Chancellor have raised concerns. The emphasis on research grants and the requirement of a proven record of having attracted not less than N400 million is restrictive and will disqualify numerous suitable candidates.
“Critical issues like evidence of university administrative experience and global reputation were left out, apparently because the “anointed candidate” lacks such experience.
“If left unchecked, the Pro-Chancellor’s actions may lead to erosion of trust and confidence in the Council, institutional instability, conflict, and damage to the university’s reputation and credibility.”
ASUU urged the Chief of Staff to the President and the Minister of Education to intervene and ensure the Pro-Chancellor operates within his authority, respecting collective governance and due process.
Ubaoji emphasised that ASUU will not stand aloof while the university’s integrity is compromised, calling the general public, media, and stakeholders to join in bringing the unlawful actions to the attention of the authorities.
