Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh
The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University has refuted claims regarding the dismissal of its newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Benard Odoh. The Council asserted that they strictly adhered to due diligence, established guidelines, and due process during the appointment of the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.
In response to a widely circulated letter from the Federal Ministry of Education, dated November 1, 2024, and signed by Mrs. R. G. Ilyasu on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, which alleged that the UNIZIK Council’s recent appointments violated existing guidelines, the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Barr. Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike, clarified in her reply to the Permanent Secretary that all requisite protocols were followed by the Council in carrying out its statutory responsibilities.
Citing the pertinent provisions of the University Act and supported by relevant documentation and photographic evidence, the Registrar addressed all concerns raised by the ministry, emphasizing that the Council acted transparently and in accordance with university regulations.
Addressing the ministry’s concerns, the Registrar stated: “Contrary to any assumptions of a formal engagement, the Pro-Chancellor did not officially meet 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 essential to clarify that these discussions do not supersede or affect the enforceability of the court’s judgment. The Council, in executing its duties, strictly adhered to a valid judgment from a competent court that directed it to utilize its statutory authority to appoint the Vice Chancellor.
Regarding concerns about the absence of a Ministry representative and certain internal council members during the Vice-Chancellor appointment meeting on October 29, 2024, we wish to clarify that all necessary protocols were observed. Invitations were sent to all relevant parties to ensure they were informed and given the opportunity to attend.
“The meeting included representatives from the Federal Character Commission, both external and internal Council members, and various other stakeholders, showcasing a broad representation of interests. For verification, attached are the attendance register, photographs documenting the proceedings, and copies of the official meeting notice sent to stakeholders.
“Furthermore, we confirm that the quorum was appropriately constituted in compliance with the statutory requirements outlined in the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004. According to Section 6(a) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Standing Orders of the Governing Council, the quorum requires five members’ presence, 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, we have attached the Council’s constitutional documents and additional information linking these requirements to the University Act, which highlight our commitment to procedural integrity and transparency in the appointment process.
“Due process was meticulously followed during the selection and appointment processes for both the Vice Chancellor and the Registrar. The suggestion of ‘reconciling with aggrieved persons’ is irrelevant to this process of procedural integrity. Of the 18 applicants for the position, 15 attended the interview, and the score sheets were accurately documented.
“The Council has fulfilled its mandate with both 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.
