Professor Bernard Odoh, recently removed as Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has contested the legality of the decision, asserting that he cannot be dismissed via a press release.
In an interview on AriseTV, Odoh stated that President Bola Tinubu was misinformed about the situation. He argued that his appointment followed due process and maintained that proper procedures must be followed for his removal.
“I’m not disobeying Mr. President, but it is the governing council that will recommend my sack,” he said, emphasizing the lack of a panel of inquiry or an opportunity for him to defend himself.
Dissolution and Reactions
The controversy began when President Tinubu approved the dissolution of UNIZIK’s Governing Council and the removal of Odoh and Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike. The decision was announced via a statement from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Odoh, however, insisted he remains UNIZIK’s Vice-Chancellor until due process is observed. He claimed that external influences aimed to undermine his tenure, citing his Ebonyi State origin as a potential reason for discrimination.
What’s Next?
Odoh has vowed to continue his duties at the university while pursuing legal recourse. “I’m going to the university to ensure that activities and accreditation go on,” he stated, challenging the process by which he was removed.
The matter is likely to escalate further, as Odoh maintains that his removal requires the involvement of the governing council and a formal inquiry.
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