President Bola Tinubu has dissolved the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, Anambra State, and removed key officials, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bernard Odoh and Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike.
In a related decision, Tinubu also approved the dismissal of Ohieku Salami as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State.
The Presidency announced the actions on Wednesday in a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga. The statement, titled “President Tinubu Sacks Nnamdi Azikiwe University Council, VC, and Registrar,” revealed the reasons behind the decision.
Reasons for Dissolution
The NAU Governing Council, chaired by Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, was accused of appointing a Vice-Chancellor who did not meet the minimum eligibility criteria, flouting due process and university laws. Other council members included Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, Amioleran Osahon, and retired General Funsho Oyeneyin.
Onanuga explained that the Federal Government intervened following reports of a breakdown in law and order within the university.
"The sacking of the governing council and officials followed reports that the council illegally appointed an unqualified Vice-Chancellor without adhering to due process. This led to tension and disharmony between the university’s Senate and the council," the statement noted.
Federal Ministry of Education’s Action
The Federal Ministry of Education confirmed the removal of Odoh and the dissolution of the university's Governing Council in a separate statement signed by its Director of Press and Public Relations, Folashade Boriowo.
The ministry emphasized the need for urgent intervention, citing “grave breaches of the laws governing the university and disregard for lawful directives from the Federal Ministry of Education.”
ASUU's Role in the Controversy
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) had previously accused the Governing Council of disregarding due process in Odoh’s appointment and demanded its dissolution.
"The Chairman of the Governing Council unilaterally appointed a Vice-Chancellor who did not meet the minimum eligibility criteria. This illegal action caused a breakdown of order and posed a significant risk to the university’s stability," the ministry's statement read.
Next Steps
To restore stability, the Federal Government plans to appoint an Acting Vice-Chancellor and reconstitute the Governing Council.
"The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized the need for swift measures to prevent further destabilization of the university. A new Governing Council will be constituted to ensure proper governance and adherence to the law," the statement concluded.
This decisive action aims to restore order and uphold the integrity of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
