The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Awka, Anambra State, has praised President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for intervening in the university’s vice-chancellor selection process.
In a statement released on Tuesday, MDCAN Chairman Dr. Victor Modekwe described the government’s action as a significant step towards restoring confidence among stakeholders in the academic community. He stated, “The decisive action taken to nullify the VC selection underscores the government’s commitment to upholding transparency and integrity in our educational institutions.”
The controversy stems from the appointment of Prof. Bernard Odoh as the new vice-chancellor. Following his selection, a memo from the Ministry of Education purportedly invalidated Odoh’s appointment, citing a failure to follow due process. The memo, signed by Permanent Secretary Rakiya Ilyasu, criticized the appointment as a “gross disregard” for established authority and annulled the recent appointment of a new registrar.
In response, the university’s Office of the Vice-Chancellor urged the public to disregard the ministry’s letter, asserting that all procedures were correctly followed in Odoh’s selection.
MDCAN also expressed concern regarding the actions of the university’s Registrar, Barr. Rosemary Nwokike, particularly her recent communications with the Ministry of Education. Nwokike claimed that there had been no formal meeting between the Pro-Chancellor and the Minister of State for Education, stating that only informal discussions had taken place with the university council. She emphasized that these discussions did not override a court judgment mandating the council to appoint the vice-chancellor.
MDCAN criticized Nwokike for acting without the necessary council resolution, questioning her authority to respond to the Permanent Secretary’s letter. The association noted that her conduct appears to undermine the dignity of her office and suggested that her close relationship with the Pro-Chancellor raises doubts about the integrity of her appointment, hinting at possible nepotism.
Furthermore, MDCAN highlighted concerns over Nwokike’s use of outdated letterhead, which still recognizes an Acting Vice-Chancellor, suggesting a lack of competence and adherence to established protocols.
The association reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the government and relevant authorities to ensure the development and integrity of educational institutions in Nigeria.
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