The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has reinstated Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu as its Acting Vice-Chancellor, following the nullification of Prof. Bernard Odoh’s appointment as the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor.
The announcement was made through a statement signed by the university’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Njelita Louis, citing the illegality of Prof. Odoh’s appointment, which was executed by the now-dissolved 10th Governing Council.
Dated November 20, 2024, the statement highlighted that the reinstatement follows directives from the Honourable Minister of Education and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Prof. Ikechebelu has been instructed to assume full administrative responsibilities immediately.
Similarly, Mr. Victor Modebelu has been reinstated as Acting Registrar, replacing Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike, whose appointment was also nullified on similar grounds.
The university community has been urged to extend full cooperation to the reinstated officials to ensure seamless administration. Pending the reconstitution of the university’s Governing Council, matters requiring council approval will be referred to the Minister of Education.
The changes underscore the government’s commitment to addressing administrative irregularities and restoring order within the institution.