UNIZIK VC Odoh Criticizes Tinubu’s Decision, Claims Dismissal via Press Release is Improper

Professor Bernard Odoh, the embattled Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has rejected his removal by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as procedurally flawed and invalid. Speaking on Arise TV, Odoh criticized the president’s decision to dissolve the university’s Governing Council and remove both him and Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike through a press release....CONTINUE READING>>>

“I’m qualified for this position. Three assessors evaluated me. I became a professor on October 1, 2015,” Odoh stated, emphasizing his legitimacy as Vice-Chancellor. He argued that his appointment followed due process and refuted claims questioning his academic credentials.

“The issue of not being a professor is all lies. People paid to remove my records from a university,” he alleged.

Odoh contended that the proper protocol for removing a Vice-Chancellor requires a recommendation from the Governing Council following an official inquiry. He accused Minister of Education Tunji Alausa of overstepping his authority by acting prematurely.

“The minister jumped the gun. The court has not ruled on this matter. I cannot be removed through a press release,” he insisted.

The professor also highlighted the absence of a panel of inquiry or any opportunity to defend himself, calling the process a breach of his rights.

“I was not appointed through a press release. The visitor (President Tinubu) has not invited me to hear my side of the story,” he said.

Odoh further claimed that his removal was influenced by ethnic prejudice, citing his origin from Ebonyi State as a factor.

“I’m from Ebonyi State. We are regarded as third-class people. People feel I’m not qualified because I come from Ebonyi State,” he lamented.

He called on President Tinubu to ensure fairness by adhering to established protocols through the university’s Governing Council.

“Mr. President must have been ill-advised. He can remove me, but only through the council,” Odoh remarked.

Despite the controversy, the professor vowed to maintain stability within the university, asserting his commitment to the institution’s operations.

“I am going to the university to ensure that activities and accreditation go on. No Vice-Chancellor, no registrar, no governing council? This is not how institutions are run,” he stated.

Odoh’s stance has ignited a broader debate about governance, transparency, and adherence to due process in Nigeria’s higher education system. Stakeholders now await the presidency’s next steps and potential judicial intervention.