Bernard Odoh, the recently dismissed Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has contested the legality of his removal, describing it as improper and unauthorized.

Mr. Odoh, appointed as the university’s seventh substantive vice-chancellor on October 29, faced controversies surrounding his recruitment process and academic credentials, which drew criticism from academic bodies and the federal government.

On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu reportedly ordered Mr. Odoh’s removal and dissolved the university’s Governing Council, accusing them of bypassing due process. However, Mr. Odoh, through his spokesperson Charles Otu, argued that only the President or the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation has the authority to make such decisions. He questioned the credibility of the dismissal letter, which he claimed was endorsed by a Public Relations Director instead of a Permanent Secretary.

Mr. Odoh also emphasized that lawsuits regarding his appointment are pending at the National Industrial Court and maintained he would not vacate his position until the court rules. He accused the Federal Ministry of Education of usurping powers and violating the University’s Act, further alleging an agenda to instigate a crisis within the institution.

The controversy stems from allegations of irregularities in Mr. Odoh’s academic credentials and his selection process, which the ministry described as lacking compliance with statutory procedures. Despite this, Mr. Odoh and the dissolved council have insisted that their actions were lawful and based on a valid court judgment.

The embattled vice-chancellor called on the university community to remain calm while awaiting the court’s decision.