The Federal Government has announced the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, stating that the Council gravely breached the laws governing the university, with utter disregard for lawful directives from the Federal Ministry of Education.
The Government also sacked the new Vice Chancellor, revealing plans to appoint an acting VC and Governing Council in the interim.
In a Press Statement signed by Boriowo Folasade Director, Press & Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Education, FG said:
“The decision comes after it was found that the Chairman of the Governing Council unilaterally appointed a Vice-Chancellor who did not meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the position. This led to a breakdown of law and order within the university community, causing tension and disharmony.
“The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that urgent measures were needed to prevent further deterioration of the situation at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, as the legal decisions taken by the Governing Council posed a significant risk of further destabilizing the institution.
“As part of the dissolution, the following members of the Governing Council have been removed:
Amb. Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe- Pro Chancellor
Hon. Hafiz Oladejo -Council Member
Hon.Augustine Onyedebelu
Engr.Amioleran Osahon
Rtd Gen. Funsho Oyeneyin.
“The Honourable 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 Nnarndi 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 step aligns with the Federal Government’s commitınent to good governance, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law in the nation’s educational institutions.”