Odoh: My Removal As VC Was Unlawful,  Flouted Due Process

Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh has argued that his removal as Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University violated the law as due process was ignored

In an interview with Arise News on Thursday, Professor Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, vehemently contested his removal, citing a breach of due process as outlined in the University Act 2007. He described the decision as politically and ethnically motivated, questioning the legality of the actions taken against him. He said,

 “there is a law in place, let us follow this law, let the law take its effect. If the court says the process that brought into position is illegal or is unlawful or is unconstitutional and they remove me by so doing, I will abide by the law of the land. But today there is no communication from the court, no communication from anybody to me, I don’t have any letter.”

The embattled Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the process leading to his removal disregarded the University Act 2007, which mandates the involvement of a joint committee of the council and senate in investigating allegations against a sitting Vice-Chancellor. He also accused certain individuals of playing the ethnic card, alleging that his removal was tied to prejudice against his Ebonyi State origins.

 “Some people feel that I am not qualified because I come from Ebonyi State,” he said. “It’s all about a gang-up; people have resolved to remove me at all costs.”

Odoh rejected claims that his removal was justified by a press release from the presidency, noting the absence of any official communication from the governing council, which had appointed him. He stressed the importance of allowing legal processes to run their course, referencing ongoing court cases addressing the allegations against him. 

“The court will determine the true position of the matter. Whatever the final decision is, I will comply,” he said.

Professor Odoh  also addressed claims of his ineligibility for the Vice-Chancellor role, including allegations that he was not qualified for the position due to insufficient years as a professor. 

“I am qualified for this position,” he asserted, “the issue of not being a professor is all lies, my documents are there.” 

Despite the controversy, Odoh maintained that he was not challenging President Bola Tinubu’s authority. However, he planned to return to the university to ensure the continuation of key activities, including accreditation processes. 

“There is no Vice-Chancellor, no registrar, no governing council, which means the place is on free fall,” he explained. “I need to ensure the university continues to function smoothly despite the crisis.”

Addressing accusations from the Federal University of Gusau about his professorial qualifications, Odoh revealed that he had submitted all necessary documentation to the university’s leadership. 

“I believe they will do the proper thing. If they don’t, there is a legal procedure to seek redress,” he said.

Professor Odoh expressing optimism about the legal process, urging adherence to institutional procedures in the education sector. 

“If you have a procedure for carrying out a function, allow the procedure to go through its breadth and width,” he advised. “This will help set the record straight and ensure progress for the institution.”

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