Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) have been instructed to refrain from attending any meetings or events organized by Vice Chancellor Bernard Odoh until the issues surrounding his appointment are clarified.
This directive, issued by Chairperson Kingsley Ubaoji, specifically advises members not to participate in the meeting scheduled for today (Tuesday) at 1 PM, which was called by Odoh.
The notice indicates that Odoh’s appointment as Vice Chancellor is currently under scrutiny, with a court ruling preventing him from assuming the position and the Ministry of Education declaring his appointment null and void.
In light of these developments, ASUU members are advised to avoid any activities led by Odoh until the situation is resolved.
It was previously reported that the Federal Ministry of Education had deemed Bernard Odoh’s recent appointment as Vice-Chancellor void.
On October 29, the University’s Governing Council appointed Odoh as the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
Odoh was selected by the Governing Council, chaired by Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, after interviews with 15 shortlisted candidates for the role.
In a letter from Mrs. R. G. Ilyasu, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, dated November 1, it was communicated that no appointments should take place without resolving issues with dissatisfied parties within the university.
The letter stated, “Following your meeting with the Honourable Minister of State for Education on Friday, October 25, it was agreed that no appointments should occur without reconciling with the concerned parties within the university community.
“It has come to our attention that your Council proceeded to appoint a Vice Chancellor without the representation of the Ministry, internal council members, and other stakeholders on October 29. This action shows a serious disregard for established authority and does not align with existing regulations.”
Despite this, Odoh maintains that his appointment is legitimate. In a statement from his Personal Media Assistant, Mr. Charles Otu, he argued that the Federal Ministry of Education lacks the legal authority to annul his appointment.
Meanwhile, Odoh, through his Special Adviser on Information and Public Relations, Dr. Emmanuel C. Ojukwu, has called for a meeting with the university community.
A circular for the meeting, obtained by SaharaReporters, indicates that it will take place at the University Auditorium at 1:00 PM today.
The circular states, “This is to inform the university community that the Vice Chancellor’s inaugural meeting will now occur as follows: Venue: University Auditorium. Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Time: 1:00 PM. All members of the University Management, Deans, Directors, Heads of Department, and other staff are expected to attend.”
However, ASUU has cautioned its members “not to attend this meeting,” asserting that Odoh’s actions undermine the institution. “Participating in this meeting would legitimize his unfounded claims and diminish the legitimate authority of our university,” the organization stated.
The ASUU chairperson further emphasized, “By attending, you would be endorsing an illegitimate administration and jeopardizing our efforts to safeguard the interests of our members and uphold academic integrity. There will be consequences for such actions.
“We expect Dr. Odoh to respect the authority of legitimate institutions. His appointment contradicts a court order and has been declared null and void by the FME. He lacks the authority he claims. He should refrain from actions that could disrupt law and order within our university.
“We urge all ASUU members to remain alert and informed about any developments related to Dr. Odoh’s activities. If you receive any invitations or notices regarding meetings with him, please disregard them.
“We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to maintaining the principles of academic integrity and excellence. Together, we will protect the interests of ASUU members and ensure the integrity of our institution.”
