A scheduled Senate meeting at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, on Wednesday 8 is not intended for the election of the Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution.
Controversy and power struggles have arisen within the university concerning the impending retirement of the current Vice Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone, in June.
Various petitions have been sent to the federal government regarding alleged attempts by certain individuals to impose themselves in the upcoming vacancy.
In a press release, Dr Emmanuel Ojukwu, Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor for Public Relations & Special Duties, dispelled rumors circulating among prospective Vice Chancellor candidates that the outgoing VC, Prof Charles Esimone, had convened the Senate solely to choose his successor.
Ojukwu emphasized, “The information circulating on social media about the impending Senate meeting of the university is unfounded and misleading, likely spread by individuals with vested interests in the upcoming position.”
The statement further clarified, “The Senate meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, 2024, does not include the election of an Acting Vice Chancellor on its agenda.”
Due to the absence of a Governing Council, the appointment of an Acting Vice Chancellor will be overseen by the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Education.
Ojukwu rebuked the allegations of improper conduct during Senate meetings, highlighting that agendas are routinely communicated to members via email, dismissing claims of secrecy regarding meeting content.
He also addressed insinuations regarding the purpose of meetings held by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, refuting any associations with fictitious election activities.
Expressing concern over the escalating ambitions of prospective Vice Chancellor candidates and the lack of decorum within the university environment, Ojukwu called for a peaceful and respectful transition process.
Prof Charles Okechukwu Esimone reiterated his commitment to fairness and tranquility within the university, urging all aspirants to uphold principles of respect and cooperation.