The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has sacked the institution’s acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu.
Ikechebelu, a former deputy vice-chancellor (administration) of the institution, was appointed acting VC in early June to replace Prof Charles Esimone, whose tenure expired on June 3.
The university’s Governing Council announced Ikechebelu’s removal through a letter signed by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Council, Gregory Mbadiwe, and made public on Saturday.
No reason was given for his removal.
Mbadiwe, in the letter, also announced the appointment of Carol Arinze-Umobi, a female professor, as the new acting vice-chancellor of the institution.
Arinze-Umobi’s appointment will take effect from July 22, 2024, the letter said.
The Council chair said that Arinze-Umobi’s appointment, which is for six months, is in accordance with the provisions of Section four of the First Schedule, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act CAP 139, LFN 2004 as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amended) Act 2007.
“The terms and conditions of your appointment are as approved by the Federal government for all Federal universities,” the letter addressed to Prof (Mrs) Arinze-Umobi read in part.
“We have full confidence in your ability to lead our esteemed institution during this period and wish you great success,” the letter added.
Mbadiwe noted that a copy of the appointment letter has been forwarded to the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, who is expected to inform President Bola Tinubu.
Meanwhile, reports said that some soldiers stormed the university premises before the council’s meeting earlier on Saturday.
Some university students were said to have been apprehensive over the presence of military personnel.
