“You Have No Power to Fire Me,” Says Sacked UNIZIK VC in Defiant Response

In the wake of his recent dismissal, Dr. Bernard Odoh, the former Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), has publicly challenged the authority of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Education, asserting that they lack the power to terminate his appointment. His comments come after a controversial decision by the president to dissolve the university’s governing council and remove him from office due to alleged procedural violations in his appointment.

Background of the Dismissal

On November 20, 2024, President Tinubu announced the dissolution of the UNIZIK governing council, which was led by Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe. The council was accused of appointing Odoh without adhering to established guidelines, prompting concerns over governance and compliance with university regulations. Alongside Odoh, Rosemary Ifoema Nwokike, the university’s registrar, was also dismissed.

The decision followed mounting pressure from various stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), which had raised alarms about the legitimacy of Odoh’s appointment. ASUU claimed that he did not meet the necessary qualifications and that the council had disregarded due process in its selection.

Odoh’s Defiant Stand

In a press conference held shortly after his removal, Dr. Odoh expressed his disbelief over the federal government’s actions, stating, “You have no power to fire me.” He emphasized that his appointment was made in accordance with a valid court judgment that authorized the governing council to exercise its statutory authority in selecting a vice-chancellor.

Odoh argued that the Ministry of Education’s intervention was unwarranted and lacked legal standing. He insisted that he had been fulfilling his duties effectively and maintained that there had been no breakdown of order at UNIZIK as claimed by government officials.

Legal and Institutional Implications

Odoh’s defiance raises significant questions about governance within Nigerian universities and the extent of federal authority over academic institutions. In his statement, he highlighted the importance of following due process and respecting judicial decisions, suggesting that any attempt to nullify his appointment would be met with legal challenges.

The controversy surrounding his dismissal is compounded by ongoing lawsuits concerning his appointment, which are currently before the National Industrial Court. Odoh’s camp argues that these legal proceedings render any actions taken by the ministry or government premature and inappropriate.

Reactions from Stakeholders

The response from various stakeholders has been mixed. While some support Odoh’s stance and call for adherence to due process, others believe that his removal is justified given the allegations against him. ASUU has reiterated its position against any violations of established protocols in university appointments and has called for an urgent resolution to restore order at UNIZIK.

The situation at UNIZIK reflects broader issues within Nigeria’s higher education system regarding governance, accountability, and political interference. As tensions rise within the university community, many are calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Odoh’s appointment and subsequent dismissal.

By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub

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