The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, has called for peace and collaboration among all factions within the institution following disputes surrounding the appointment of the seventh Vice Chancellor, Professor Bernard Odoh.
During a press briefing in Awka on Friday, the Personal Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Vice Chancellor, Charles Otu, emphasized the need for reconciliation and collective efforts to advance the university’s development goals.
### **Clarifying the Controversy**
Otu addressed allegations of irregularities in the selection process, asserting that they are baseless and lacked evidence. He reiterated that the process was transparent and concluded on October 29, 2024, when the university’s Governing Council declared Prof. Odoh the winner with 90 points, ahead of the runner-up, who scored 68 points.
“The Governing Council, led by Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, ensured fairness in the process, including addressing concerns raised by the Medical and Dental Council Association of Nigeria,” Otu said.
### **Prof. Odoh’s Credentials**
Highlighting the Vice Chancellor’s academic and professional background, Otu described Prof. Odoh as an accomplished scholar.
– **Education:** Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences (1999), Master of Science, and Doctorate in Applied Geophysics from NAU (2008).
– **Experience:** Visiting Professor of Geophysics at Federal University Gusau (2014) and a full professor since 2015.
Otu added, “Prof. Odoh is committed to transformative development and is focused on implementing his vision for the university.”
### **Call for Unity**
He urged detractors to prioritize the institution’s interests over personal grievances, stressing that negative publicity harms the university’s progress.
“Those tarnishing the Vice Chancellor’s reputation with baseless accusations should rather work with him to achieve a collective vision for UNIZIK,” Otu said.
### **Media Responsibility**
Otu also appealed to journalists to verify facts before publishing, noting that truth, supported by evidence, will prevail over misinformation.
The university’s leadership hopes to turn the page on the controversy and foster a harmonious environment conducive to academic excellence and innovation.
