Tinubu, Education Minister Urged To Resolve UniZik VC Crisis

Stakeholders at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UniZik), Awka, have urgently called President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Education to intervene in the brewing crisis over selecting the institution’s new Vice-Chancellor.

The call comes amid mounting tension as the University’s Governing Council plans to conduct interviews for the position this week despite serious concerns over alleged bias and discrimination in the selection process.

The Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) has taken legal action against the Governing Council, filing a case at the National Industrial Court over what it describes as discriminatory qualification requirements that unfairly exclude its members from the selection process.

Further complicating matters are allegations that the Council plans to impose a candidate whose professorship and other qualifications remain controversial.

This has heightened fears of an impending industrial crisis that could paralyse academic activities in the institution.

Stakeholders warn that unless President Tinubu and the Education Minister intervene promptly, the situation could deteriorate into a full-blown crisis.

They emphasise the need for adherence to due process and fair consideration of all qualified candidates in selecting the new Vice-Chancellor.

Through its Chairman, NAUTH Nnewi Chapter, Victor Modekwe, the Association contended that previous advertorials required possession of a Doctorate degree or its equivalent and administrative experience within the university system.