Breaking: Education Ministry Removes Nnamdi Azikiwe University Vice-Chancellor and Dissolves Governing Council

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the removal of Professor Bernard Odoh as the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and the dissolution of the university’s Governing Council. The decision, revealed in a statement on Wednesday by Folashade Boriowo, the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, follows serious allegations from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) regarding the improper appointment of Odoh.

ASUU had previously urged the Ministry to dissolve the Council, citing illegalities and procedural breaches in Odoh’s appointment. According to the Ministry’s statement, the dissolution of the Governing Council was prompted by significant violations of university laws and directives from the Federal Ministry of Education. Specifically, the Council’s Chairman was found to have unilaterally appointed a Vice-Chancellor who did not meet the minimum eligibility requirements, leading to unrest and disorder within the university community.

Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, highlighted the urgency of addressing the situation to prevent further destabilization at the university. He emphasized that the unlawful actions of the former Governing Council threatened the institution’s stability.

In response, the Minister has ordered the removal of Professor Bernard Odoh and announced that an Acting Vice-Chancellor will be appointed in accordance with the university’s founding act. Additionally, a new Governing Council will be constituted to restore proper governance, ensure adherence to legal standards, and maintain the university’s integrity.