Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, the embattled Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, has publicly addressed his dismissal by President Bola Tinubu.
Despite the announcement of his removal and the dissolution of the university's Governing Council, Odoh firmly stated on Arise Television’s Morning Show that he had not been officially informed of his termination. He emphasized, "I haven’t committed any crime," and expressed his intention to continue performing his duties as Vice Chancellor.
The controversy began when a letter from the Federal Ministry of Education, signed by Director of Press and Public Relations Boriowo Folasade, cited alleged breaches of university regulations as the reason for the decision.
However, Odoh and his supporters argue that the Ministry overstepped its authority, as such powers are reserved for the President under the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act, LFN 2004. The university maintains that Odoh's appointment followed due process and was widely accepted by stakeholders.
Adding to the complexity, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) questioned Odoh's qualifications, claiming he was not a full professor. This assertion was countered by the Federal University Gusau, which confirmed Odoh's professorship in Geological Sciences since October 1, 2015.
The university's Information and Public Relations Directorate accused certain individuals of using ASUU to pursue personal vendettas after losing out in the Vice Chancellor race.
Despite the turmoil, UNIZIK insists that its campuses remain calm and that Odoh continues to fulfill his responsibilities effectively. The university has called for judicial resolution of the matter, emphasizing its commitment to upholding the rule of law.
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