President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially dissolved the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. This decision also included the removal of key officials, including the university’s new Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Odoh, and its Registrar, Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike.
The announcement was made through a statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, on Wednesday in Abuja. The statement clarified that the council was led by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe and consisted of members including Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, Mr. Amioleran Osahon, and Rtd. Gen. Funsho Oyeneyin.
Onanuga explained that the dissolution of the council and the dismissal of officials were prompted by allegations that the council appointed an unqualified vice-chancellor in violation of the university’s governing laws. Reports indicated that the appointment process did not follow due process, creating significant tension between the university’s Senate and the council in the 33-year-old institution.
The Federal Government intervened to resolve the controversy and expressed concerns over the council’s apparent disregard for legal procedures in its selection process.
In a related development, President Tinubu also approved the dismissal of Mr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State. This decision followed Salami’s unauthorized actions, including the illegal suspension of the university’s Vice Chancellor, despite directives from the Federal Ministry of Education to revoke the suspension.
Onanuga revealed that Salami had resorted to abusive and threatening behavior toward senior officials of the Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary, further justifying the dismissal.
The Federal Government emphasized that university councils have the responsibility to ensure the seamless operation of their institutions in accordance with the laws establishing each university. Onanuga stated, “President Tinubu cautioned councils against actions that could distract from the administration’s focus on enhancing the nation’s education standards.”
The President’s decision underscores his administration’s commitment to maintaining order and upholding the integrity of the nation’s educational institutions.
