UNIZIK Dismisses Rumors of Imposing Next Vice Chancellor, Management Confirms Appointment Protocol

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) management clarifies that the appointment of the next Vice Chancellor will follow proper procedures, denying rumors of favoritism and imposition.

UNIZIK Dismisses Rumors of Imposing Next Vice Chancellor, Management Confirms Appointment Protocol
UNIZIK logo

In the wake of swirling rumors regarding the succession plan for the next Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Charles Esimone, the current Vice Chancellor, has unequivocally stated that the appointment process rests solely with the Federal Ministry of Education, in compliance with university regulations.

Responding to media reports by myschoolnews alleging plans for imposition of a successor, Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, the Special Adviser on Public Relations and Special Duties to Prof. Esimone, refuted these claims as baseless and erroneous. Ojukwu clarified that the outgoing Vice Chancellor lacks the authority to unilaterally appoint an acting Vice Chancellor, stressing that such decisions fall within the purview of the Governing Council, which is yet to be reconstituted.

RECOMMENDED: UNIZIK Honors Former Governor Ezeife, A Key Figure in Securing Federal Status

"The Vice-Chancellor does not have the power to install an acting Vice-Chancellor. This is the duty of the Governing Council of the university. But in this case, the Governing Council is yet to be reconstituted," remarked Ojukwu.

He further emphasized that Prof. Esimone remains committed to addressing the myriad challenges facing the university, expressing his desire to depart from office leaving behind a harmonious institution. Ojukwu reiterated Prof. Esimone's readiness to collaborate with whomever assumes the role of Acting Vice Chancellor for the sake of the university's unity and progress.

SEE THIS: UNIZIK to Host 101st Inaugural Lecture on Materials Preservation

Contrary to speculations, the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University has appointed Mr. Samuel Nnaemeka Ufoh as the Acting Registrar of the institution. This appointment was officially announced through a letter signed by Prof. Charles Esimone, dated 5th April 2024, wherein Ufoh's tenure commenced on Monday, 8th April 2024.

ALSO FOLLOW: UNIZIK Students Demand Action Over Rising Kidnappings

Mr. Sam Ufoh, previously serving as Deputy Registrar 1 in charge of the Personnel Unit of the Registry, hails from Nri in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. He brings to his new role a wealth of experience and a commitment to the university's mission.

In light of these developments, it is evident that the management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University is dedicated to upholding institutional integrity and ensuring a transparent and merit-based succession process for the next Vice Chancellor.

For further updates and insights into this matter and more, subscribe to myschoolnews for the latest news and analysis.