Front Page Editorial: Coup-like Removal at UNIZIK: A Warning to Politicians – Hands Off Our Universities!
Front Page Editorial: Coup-like Removal at UNIZIK: A Warning to Politicians – Hands Off Our Universities!
By Tony Okafor
The recent events at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) are a stark reminder of the dangers of politicizing our institutions of higher learning.
The use of three truckloads of soldiers and other security operatives to remove a sitting acting Vice Chancellor, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, is a disturbing development that should sound alarm bells for all concerned.
UNIZIK, named after the great Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, is a citadel of learning that has become a first-choice university in recent times.
It is a symbol of academic excellence and a beacon of hope for the future of our youth.
But the recent coup-like removal of the acting Vice Chancellor is a threat to the very fabric of the institution.
We warn politicians to keep their hands off UNIZIK! The university is not a political playground for power struggles and personal interests. It is a sacred institution that must be protected from the vagaries of politics.
We urge the authorities to respect the autonomy of the university and allow the academic community to manage its affairs without interference.
The interests of the students, staff, and general standards of education must be prioritized above political machinations.
UNIZIK must not be allowed to die on the altar of political expediency. We call on all stakeholders to rise up and defend the integrity of this great institution.
Enough is enough!
