Concerned Groups Call for Reconstitution of UNIZIK Governing Council
A coalition of concerned groups has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to urgently reconstitute the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, in order to restore effective leadership and governance at the institution.
The groups, which include students, alumni, and education stakeholders, have raised concerns over the leadership of the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu. They accused him of showing favoritism in recent appointments, failing to address critical issues such as the low morale of staff and students, and overseeing academic stagnation. The groups believe that these issues have severely hindered the progress of the institution.
Their appeal follows the recent controversy over the appointment of Professor Bernard Odoh as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, which was overturned by President Tinubu, leading to the dissolution of the Amb. Greg Mbadiwe-led Governing Council due to alleged irregularities.
The groups argue that the absence of a properly constituted Governing Council has left the Acting Vice-Chancellor unchecked, resulting in unilateral decisions that lack transparency and have undermined the university’s progress. They expressed concern that the university’s once-promising trajectory is now being threatened by poor leadership.
Dr. Sampson Chikelu, a spokesperson for the coalition, emphasized the need for President Tinubu to act swiftly to address the leadership vacuum. “The university deserves a competent and visionary leader who can guide it towards growth and excellence,” he stated.
The groups warned that they would resort to protests and demonstrations if their demand for the reconstitution of the Governing Council is not met. They stressed that they would not stand by while the institution’s leadership crisis continues to affect the quality of education and welfare of students and staff.
As UNIZIK faces this critical juncture, stakeholders are calling for immediate action to restore its reputation as one of Nigeria’s premier institutions of higher learning.
