The Ministry of Education has rescinded the appointment of Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh as Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), just six days after his selection by the university’s Governing Council. In a letter dated November 1, 2024, and signed by Mrs. R.G. Ilyasu on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the ministry deemed the appointment “null and void” due to alleged procedural discrepancies.
The ministry cited a lack of inclusion of ministry representatives, internal council members, and other stakeholders in the appointment process. It further stated that appointments should not proceed until reconciliation efforts are made with aggrieved parties within the university.
UNIZIK’s Governing Council, led by Pro-Chancellor Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, defended the process, asserting that all necessary protocols were followed in adherence to a court judgment. The Council’s letter included attendance records, meeting notices, and other documentation to support the legitimacy of Odoh’s appointment.
In response to the ministry’s objection, a source close to Prof. Odoh dismissed the controversy as “propaganda” and confirmed his intention to assume office on Tuesday as the university’s 7th Vice Chancellor. Meanwhile, a Ministry of Education representative confirmed the nullification, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the leadership transition at UNIZIK.
News Editor