Okey Maduforo, Awka
The ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has taken a new turn with the reinstatement of Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu as Acting Vice-Chancellor. Prof. Ikechebelu, who previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), returns to the role amid escalating tensions on campus.
This development comes as Comrade Kingsley Ubaoji, Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNIZIK chapter, alleges threats to his life from unidentified individuals. Similarly, over 20 senior lecturers from the institution have reportedly fled Anambra State for Abuja, citing fears of possible attacks.
The crisis intensified following an announcement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, conveyed through a statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. The announcement confirmed the removal of Prof. Benard Odoh as the 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, the dissolution of the Governing Council led by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe, and the dismissal of Registrar Bar. Rosemary Nwokike.
Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu had previously been appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor after the tenure of Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone ended. However, his earlier tenure was abruptly interrupted when a group of armed personnel allegedly removed him and installed Prof. Carol Imobi as Acting Vice-Chancellor in a dramatic operation described as a “gestapo-style takeover.”
In a letter signed by Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, addressed to members of the university’s Senate and the Acting Registrar, the reinstatement of Prof. Ikechebelu was confirmed:
“Sequel to the approval of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, via letter Ref PRES 184/Edu/10 dated 18th Nov 2024, nullifying the appointment of Prof. Benard Odoh as the 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university, I am pleased to convey the approval of the Honorable Minister to reinstate you as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University with immediate effect.
Consequently, you are directed to take charge of the administration of the university. Take note that henceforth, any matter requiring Governing Council approval shall be forwarded to the Honorable Minister of Education for consideration and approval, pending the reconstitution of a new Governing Council by Mr. President.”
When contacted, ASUU Chairman Comrade Kingsley Ubaoji, speaking from Abuja, expressed grave concerns for his safety:
“I am not in Awka; I am in Abuja, and I have to be alive first to talk. As I speak now, there are threats to my life, and that is why I am not in Awka.”
Reports indicate that other ASUU leaders have also left the state, citing threats received within 24 hours of the government’s announcement regarding the university’s leadership.
This unfolding drama underscores the growing tension and insecurity within UNIZIK’s academic community, raising questions about governance and safety on the campus.
