MDCAN Applauds Government’s Intervention in Controversial VC Appointment at Unizik

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital in Awka, Anambra State, has expressed its appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, and 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, MDCAN characterized the intervention as a demonstration of the administration’s responsiveness and a significant move toward reinstating confidence among stakeholders in the academic community.

“The decisive action taken to nullify the vice-chancellor selection underscores the government’s commitment to fostering transparency and integrity within our educational institutions. This intervention not only exemplifies the administration’s responsiveness but also represents a crucial step in restoring trust among academic community stakeholders,” the statement read.

Disputes have arisen between university authorities and the Federal Ministry of Education concerning the vice-chancellor’s appointment. Following the appointment of Prof. Bernard Odoh as the university’s vice-chancellor, a memo allegedly from the ministry nullified his selection, asserting that the appointment did not adhere to due process.

The memo, signed by Ilyasu, criticized the appointment as a “gross disregard” for established authority and contrary to existing regulations. Additionally, it also annulled the recent appointment of a new registrar at the institution.

However, the Office of the Vice-Chancellor has urged the public to disregard the ministry’s letter, asserting that due process was thoroughly adhered to in Odoh’s appointment.

Meanwhile, MDCAN has criticized the actions and conduct of the university’s Registrar, Barr. Rosemary Nwokike, particularly her recent communications 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, but only informal discussions with the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Council. She emphasized that these discussions do not negate the enforceability of a court judgment mandating the council to appoint the Vice-Chancellor.

“In response to inquiries about the absence of a ministry representative at the appointment meeting on 29 October 2024, she asserted that all protocols were followed. MDCAN contends that Barr. Nwokike is acting without proper Council authorization. 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 critical questions about whose authority she represents.

“Moreover, the Registrar is not a personal secretary to the Pro-Chancellor or the Vice-Chancellor. By positioning herself in this manner, she undermines the dignity of her office, appearing more as a ‘private/confidential secretary’ than a public servant.

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

MDCAN reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the government and relevant authorities to ensure the ongoing development and integrity of educational institutions.