Just In: President Tinubu Sacks Nnamdi Azikiwe University Council, Vice Chancellor, and Registrar

President Bola Tinubu announced the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) in Awka, Anambra State. Alongside this, the President removed the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Odoh, and Registrar, Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike, from their positions. The decision also extended to the dismissal of Ohieku Salami, who served as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State.

The dissolution of the NAU council, chaired by Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, followed allegations that it had bypassed proper procedures in the appointment of Prof. Odoh, who was said to be unqualified for the role of Vice-Chancellor. This controversial decision led to tension between the university’s Senate and the Governing Council, prompting the intervention of the federal government.

The Federal Ministry of Education supported the dismissal, citing significant breaches of the university’s governing laws and failure to follow due process in the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor. The Ministry’s statement highlighted that the council had unilaterally appointed an individual who did not meet the necessary qualifications for the position. This created unrest within the university community and led to a breakdown of order.

The Ministry further stressed that the removal of Prof. Odoh and the dissolution of the Governing Council were necessary to prevent further destabilization of the institution. The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized the need for swift action to restore order and governance. An Acting Vice-Chancellor will be appointed in the interim, and a new Governing Council will be constituted to ensure proper administration of the university in compliance with legal and academic standards.