…..Appointments Followed Due Process, Approved Guidelines, Governing Council Replies Education Permanent Secretary

The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has dispelled reports of the sack of its newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Prof. Benard Odoh and 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 on Tuesday 29th October, 2024.

Reacting to a trending letter from the Federal Ministry of Education dated 1st November 2024 and signed by Mrs R. G. Ilyasu for the Permanent Secretary cancelling the UNIZIK Council’s recent appointments for not following existing guidelines, the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Barr Mrs Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike in a reply to the Permanent Secretary said all necessary protocols were observed by the council in discharging its statutory functions.

Quoting the necessary statutory provisions of the University Act and also backed with relevant documentations and pictorial evidences, the Registrar replied to all the points raised by the ministry and stated that the Council, within the scope of its lawful authority, fulfilled its mandate with transparency and in adherence to the Universities’ regulations.

On the points raised, the Registrar stated: “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”, the letter stated.

It added, “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.

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