The Governing Council of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, has removed the institution’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Joseph Ikechebelu.
Mr Ikechebelu, a professor and a former deputy vice-chancellor (administration) of the institution, was appointed acting vice-chancellor in early June to replace Charles Esimone, a professor whose tenure expired on 3 June.
The university’s Governing Council announced the sack of the acting vice-chancellor in a letter made available to reporters.
The letter was signed by the pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the council, Gregory Mbadiwe.
Mr Mbadiwe, in the letter, also announced the appointment of Carol Arinze-Umobi, a female professor, as a new acting vice-chancellor of the institution.
Mrs Arinze-Umobi’s appointment will take effect from Monday, 22 July 2024, the letter said.
The council chairperson said the appointment, which is for six months, is in accordance with the provisions of Section four of the First Schedule, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act CAP 139, LFN 2004 as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amended) Act 2007.
“The terms and conditions of your appointment are as approved by the federal government for all federal universities,” part of the letter, addressed to Mrs Arinze-Umobi, reads.
“We have full confidence in your ability to lead our esteemed institution during this period and wish you great success,” the letter added.
Mr Mbadiwe noted that a copy of the appointment letter has been forwarded to the country’s Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, who will then inform President Bola Tinubu.
There was confusion when a Professor of Law, Carol Umobi was appointed by the governing council to take over from Ikechibelu.
But the University clarified that the former Acting Vice Chancellor(VC) of the institution, Prof. Joe Ikechebelu was only directed to assume the office on temporary capacity.
