MDCAN hails FG for nullifying UNIZIK VC’s selection process

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Anambra State, has commended President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and the Permanent Secretary of Education, Mrs Rakiya Ilyasu, for their intervention in the university’s vice-chancellor selection process.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Victor Modekwe, on Tuesday, the association described the intervention as a testament to the administration’s responsiveness and a significant step towards restoring confidence among academic community stakeholders.

“The decisive action taken to nullify the VC selection underscores the government’s commitment to upholding transparency and integrity in our educational institutions. This intervention is not only a testament to the administration’s responsiveness but also a significant step toward restoring confidence among stakeholders in the academic community,” part of the statement read.

Disputes have arisen between the university authorities and the Federal Ministry of Education regarding the VC’s appointment. Following the appointment of Prof Bernard Odoh as the university’s VC, a memo allegedly from the ministry nullified Odoh’s selection, stating that the appointment did not follow due process.

The memo, signed by Ilyasu, described the appointment as a “gross disregard” for constituted authority and contrary to existing provisions. The memo also annulled the recent appointment of a new registrar at the institution.

However, the university’s Office of the VC called on the public to disregard the ministry’s letter, asserting that due process had been thoroughly observed in Odoh’s appointment.

Meanwhile, MDCAN criticized the actions and conduct of the university’s Registrar, Barr. Rosemary Nwokike, particularly her recent correspondence with the Ministry of Education.

“Barr. Nwokike claimed that there was no formal meeting between the Pro-Chancellor and the Minister of State for Education, only informal discussions with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Council. She emphasised that these discussions do not override the enforceability of a court judgment mandating the council to appoint the Vice-Chancellor.

“In response to questions regarding the absence of a ministry representative at the appointment meeting on 29 October 2024, she stated that all protocols were observed. MDCAN asserts that Barr. Nwokike is acting without the necessary Council resolution. As the secretary to both the Council and Senate, she lacks the authority to respond to the Permanent Secretary’s letter without formal council approval. This raises the question of whose authority she represents.
“Moreover, the Registrar is not a personal secretary to the Pro-Chancellor or the Vice-Chancellor. By positioning herself this way, she undermines the dignity of her office and appears more as a ‘private/confidential secretary’ than a public servant.

“It is also concerning that the appointed Registrar’s relationship with the Pro-Chancellor raises serious doubts about the integrity of her appointment and suggests possible nepotism. Furthermore, her continued use of outdated letterhead, which recognises an Acting Vice-Chancellor, indicates a lack of competence and disregard for established protocols,” the statement added.

The association reiterated its commitment to working with the government and relevant authorities to ensure the continued development and integrity of educational institutions.