Prof Onu clarifies on crisis in Unizik, condemns soldiers invasion, appointment of new acting VC
News
By Ifeizu Joe
A professor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and former rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Prof Godwin Onu has condemned the invasion of Unizik by armed military personnel, last weekend.
Onu who condemned the appointment of a new vice chancellor, also shed light on a recent Senate meeting of the university, on whose premise the new governing council appointed a new acting VC.
A press statement by Prof Onu, which was made available to THE RAZOR with the title: “Clarification on the Emergency Senate Meeting of July 19, 2024” called for calm.
The statement read: “I wish to provide clarity on the recent emergency Senate meeting held on July 19, 2024. Prior to this date, a platform was established for professors to express their support for convening the Senate session in response to the Council directive regarding the appointment of an Acting Vice-Chancellor.
“The urgent nature of the directive led some of us to add our names to the list, expecting it to prompt the University management to call for an emergency meeting.
“However, some of us believed that if the management failed to act, the Senate could lawfully convene the meeting on its own accord. Furthermore, we understood that if the management did not respond promptly to a request for an emergency meeting, the Senate comprising at least two-thirds of its members, could lawfully convene the session.
“However, I am uncertain whether the list of 35 professors constituted the required two thirds majority of the Senate’s membership. To my surprise, on Saturday morning, I was Informed that the emergency meeting had taken place and that resolutions had been passed and endorsed.
“As a longstanding member of this university, a respected elder with close to 19 years of professorship, and who also headed a tertiary institution for eight years, I prioritise openness, truth, and integrity.
“I want to clarify that I was not invited to the emergency meeting and could not have participated or signed any attendance list. Looking ahead, I urge the Senate to exercise prudence and maturity in handling sensitive and urgent matters like the Council’s directive.
“Rushing into decisions without due process can lead to confusion and crises within our institution. We must remember that this university’s legacy transcends our tenures. The Senate should always adhere to existing laws, act reasonably, and make decisions that will withstand the test of time.
“We must guide the Council for the greater good of the university and future generations. Whilst any or everyone may hold the position of Acting Chancellor or substantive, the processes leading to such appointments must uphold principles of integrity, transparency, and fairness.
“Let us ensure that our actions align with these values to maintain the credibility and respect of our institution. In conclusion, I reiterate my commitment to upholding these principles and advocate for a harmonious and responsible approach to governance within the University.
