This appeal for harmony comes in light of various disputes surrounding the appointment of the seventh vice chancellor, Prof. Bernard Odoh.
During a press conference held in Awka on Friday, Charles Otu, the Personal Assistant for Media and Publicity to the Vice Chancellor, stated that the matters related to the vice chancellor's appointment have been resolved, urging the university community to support the vice chancellor in implementing his commendable initiatives for the institution.
Otu emphasized that the purpose of the press conference was to address and rectify the misleading narratives circulating about the vice chancellor's character, academic qualifications, and background.
He clarified that the claims of irregularities in the selection process of the vice chancellor are baseless and unsupported by substantial evidence. He further noted that despite any ongoing legal matters, it is undeniable that the selection process for the seventh substantive Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University concluded on Thursday, October 29, 2024.
He remarked, “The selection for the seventh substantive Vice Chancellor of UNIZIK was finalized on October 29, 2024, with Prof. Bernard Odoh achieving the highest score of 90 points.
Additionally, a National Industrial Court in Awka affirmed the scoring criteria established by the Governing Council, which, under the leadership of Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, ensured a fair process while addressing the concerns raised by the Medical and Dental Council Association of Nigeria.
Prof. Odoh has a distinguished academic history, having earned his Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences in 1999, followed by a Master of Science in Applied Geophysics and a Doctorate in Applied Geophysics from NAU in 2008.
In 2014, he held the position of visiting professor of geophysics at the Federal University Gusau, and in 2015, he was appointed as a full professor of applied geophysics.
Prof. Odoh was appointed Vice Chancellor after achieving a score of 90 points in a comprehensive interview conducted by the University’s Governing Council on October 29, 2024, surpassing the 68 points of the runner-up.
As Vice Chancellor, he is dedicated to realizing his expansive and transformative vision for the university's development.
Otu emphasized the importance of media outlets verifying information before publication, asserting that the truth will prevail over falsehoods, particularly when contradicted by verifiable facts.
He also urged those behind negative media narratives against the Vice Chancellor to collaborate with him for the advancement of the university.
“Individuals within and outside the university who have resorted to social media to damage the Vice Chancellor's reputation and allege irregularities in the selection process, without substantial evidence, should prioritize the university's welfare over personal interests.
“Odoh is recognized as a distinguished academic with a captivating and engaging personality,” he concluded.