The ongoing controversy surrounding the appointments of the Vice Chancellor and Registrar at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has intensified as the Ministry of Education nullified both appointments, citing procedural irregularities. In response, the ousted Registrar, Barrister Rosemary Nwokike, has firmly rejected the Ministry’s directive, insisting that the appointments followed due legal and institutional processes.
A recent letter from the Ministry of Education, signed by Permanent Secretary Mrs. R.G. Ilyasu, questioned the legitimacy of Professor Bernard Odoh’s appointment as Vice Chancellor, noting the absence of Ministry representation during his selection process. It also annulled Nwokike’s appointment as Registrar, advising the University’s Governing Council to halt further appointments until the new Minister of Education assumes office.
In a counter-statement, Nwokike defended the validity of the appointments, asserting that the Governing Council adhered to a binding court judgment mandating its authority in selecting the Vice Chancellor. She clarified that no formal meeting had occurred between the Pro-Chancellor and the Minister of State for Education, emphasizing that any informal discussions with outgoing ministry officials did not override the court’s directive.
Nwokike also addressed concerns regarding procedural adherence, noting that all essential protocols were followed during the Vice Chancellor’s appointment meeting held on October 29, 2024. She explained that invitations were extended to all stakeholders, and the meeting was attended by representatives from the Federal Character Commission, council members, and other relevant parties. “For transparency,” she added, “the attendance register, photographs of the proceedings, and official meeting notices are attached for verification.”
To further reinforce her position,
