From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Federal Government has announced the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, otherwise known as UNIZIK.
It also announced the immediate sack of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Benard Odoh, who was recently appointed by the sacked Governing Council.
Boriowo Folasade, Director, Press & Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, in a statement, on Wednesday, said the action was as a result of grave breaches of the laws governing the university, and outright disregard for lawful directives from the Federal Ministry of Education.
The government also said the Chairman of the Governing Council of unilaterally appointed a Vice-Chancellor who did not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the position, thus resulting in the breakdown of law and order within the university community, causing tension and disharmony.
She added: “As part of the dissolution, the following members of the Governing Council have been removed: Amb. Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe – Pro Chancellor; Hon. Hafiz Oladejo; Hon.Augustine Onyedebelu; Engr . Amioleran Osahon; and Rtd Gen. Funsho Oyeneyin, who served as members.
“The Minister of Education has also announced the removal of Prof. Bernard Odoh, the Vice-Chancellor who was illegally appointed by the dissolved Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
“In accordance with the university’s founding act, an Acting Vice-Chancellor will be appointed, and a new Governing Council for the university will be constituted as soon as possible to ensure proper governance and adherence to the law. All these changes are with immediate effect.
“This steps align with the Federal Government’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in the nation’s educational institutions.”