Charles Otu, Special Assistant on media and publicity to the embattled Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Professor Benard Odoh, has stated that the professor’s appointment remains lawful and has not been voided by the Federal Government.
Social media and mainstream news outlets have been flooded with alleged documents from the Federal Ministry of Education, dated November 1, 2024, claiming that Odoh’s position as the university’s 7th Vice-Chancellor had been nullified. The letter, reportedly addressed to Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of UNIZIK’s Governing Council, suggests that Odoh’s appointment was in question.
In a statement provided to The Trumpet on Sunday, Mr. Otu emphasized that Nigeria’s current laws clearly outline the roles and authority of university governing councils, which are responsible for significant decisions, including the appointment of vice-chancellors. Otu asserted that these responsibilities are legally independent of the Federal Ministry of Education’s direct control.
According to Otu, the Governing Council of a university holds exclusive authority over administrative and governance matters, which include setting policies, managing finances, and appointing leadership positions. He explained that the council operates as an autonomous body, legally protected from external influences, including directives from the Federal Ministry of Education.
Otu elaborated, “The University’s Governing Council’s actions align with the statutory requirements of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, Cap 139 (as amended), LFN 2004. The council’s decision-making is independent, and it is not obligated to follow the Ministry of Education’s directives on internal appointments.”
Otu’s statement clarified that due process was meticulously followed during the appointment of Professor Odoh. The university’s Registrar, who serves as the Secretary to the Council, confirmed that the appointment was made in strict compliance with Section 6(a) of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Standing Orders, which mandates a quorum of at least five members for critical decisions.
Read also: Tension in Enugu community as court order allegedly ignored for Igweship election
“Due process was observed throughout the selection process, ensuring that Professor Odoh’s appointment was both legitimate and in alignment with the university’s governing laws,” the statement read.
Otu underscored that under the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act 2003, also known as the Universities Autonomy Act No. 1, 2007, university governing councils are empowered to make independent decisions that best serve their institution. This legal framework ensures that universities are shielded from external political or administrative interference, fostering academic freedom and integrity in university governance.
He added, “The Federal Ministry of Education oversees educational standards but does not hold authority over specific appointments within universities. This autonomy allows universities to operate in the best interests of their students, staff, and academic objectives without undue outside influence.”
The statement further emphasized that autonomy in governance is essential for maintaining academic freedom and protecting universities from political pressures. This independence allows institutions to prioritize academic goals, advance research, and foster an environment conducive to learning and innovation.
“By respecting these legal boundaries, Nigerian universities can operate more effectively, making decisions that benefit their communities and uphold national educational standards,” Otu stated.
