Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Nnamdi Azikiwe University has dispelled reports of the sack of its newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Benard Odoh, by the Ministry of Education.
Ikengaonline reported that the ministry of Education had in a letter signed by Mrs R. G. Ilyasu for the Permanent Secretary, annulled the appointment of the VC by the institution’s Governing Council for not following existing guidelines.
Reacting in a letter signed by the Registrar, Barr. (Mrs) R. I. Nwokike and addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, the university denied any official meeting between the Pro-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the Minister of State for Education.
The Registrar said that instead, informal discussions took place between the outgoing minister of state Education and Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
The Registrar also stated that due diligence, approved guidelines and due process were all strictly adhered to in the process leading to the appointment of the 7th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.
“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.
“It is important to clarify that these discussions do not supersede or alter the enforceability of the court’s judgment. The Council in discharging its duties, adhered strictly to a valid judgment from a competent court, which directed the Council to exercise its statutory authority in appointing the Vice Chancellor.
“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 set forth in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004. In accordance with Section 6(a) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Standing Orders of the Governing Council, the quorum requirement mandates the presence of five members including at least one of the following: the Vice Chancellor or his Deputy, one appointee of the Visitor, and one appointee of the Senate. For reference and validation, please find attached the Council’s constitutional documents and additional information linking these requirements to the University Act. These documents underscore our adherence to procedural integrity and transparency in the appointment process.”
“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,” the letter stated.
