President Bola Tinubu has approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, and the removal of key officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh, and the Registrar, Mrs. Rosemary Ifeoma Nwokike.

The Governing Council, headed by Ambassador Greg Ozumba Mbadiwe, comprised other notable members such as Hafiz Oladejo, Augustine Onyedebelu, Engr. Amioleran Osahon, and Rtd. Gen. Funsho Oyeneyin.

However, their tenure came under scrutiny following accusations of misconduct in the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor.

Reports revealed that the Council had appointed an individual deemed unqualified for the position, bypassing the established guidelines and due process required for such a critical role.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the Federal Government intervened to prevent a brewing crisis between the university’s Senate and the Governing Council.

The statement emphasized the government’s concern over the Council’s disregard for the university’s governing laws and its role in creating unnecessary tension within the institution.

The 23-year-old university has been a cornerstone of education in the region, making the recent controversies even more alarming.

President Tinubu expressed his commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in educational institutions.

He noted that such lapses undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s academic system and must be addressed to maintain public trust.

The President’s actions also extended to the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State, where Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, was removed.

Salami faced accusations of unlawfully suspending the Vice-Chancellor without adhering to the prescribed procedures.

Despite directives from the Federal Ministry of Education to reverse the suspension, Salami reportedly refused to comply and instead engaged in what the government described as abusive and threatening behavior towards ministry officials, including the Permanent Secretary.

The Federal Government’s intervention underscores its resolve to restore order and integrity within Nigeria’s higher education sector.

President Tinubu has cautioned governing councils to avoid actions that distract from their primary mandate of fostering academic excellence.

He reiterated that his administration is focused on raising the standard of education across the country and will not tolerate acts that compromise this mission.