By Our Correspondent
A Nigerian-based NGO, YOHESOR, has waded into the controversy surrounding the sack of Professor Benard Odoh as the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
The NGO has defended Odoh and Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, the former Chairman of the Governing Council, alleging that their sack was an evil conspiracy.
According to YOHESOR, the allegations of fraudulent employment and professorial appointment leveled against Odoh by the Registrar of Federal University of Gusau are baseless and questionable.
The NGO claims that documents available to it, including court-certified records, reveal that Odoh’s credentials and appointment followed due process.
YOHESOR also highlighted the political dimension of the controversy, noting that Odoh’s history as a former Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government and gubernatorial candidate under APGA may have unsettled some of his rivals.
The NGO reminded Nigerians that Odoh had survived multiple assassination attempts during his political journey, with reports indicating the loss of 28 loyalists who are yet to get justice.
The NGO questioned the hurried intervention of the Minister of Education, Mr. Tunde Alausa, in the affair, describing it as an affront to the principles of university autonomy and academic foundations.
YOHESOR believes that Prof Odoh may be a victim of institutional opportunism, used to enhance the university’s accreditation prospects and then discarded when it was convenient for them.
The controversy has raised concerns about potential external interference in university governance, with the Ministry of Education reportedly refusing to send representatives to the election despite a court order.
YOHESOR urged Nigerians, particularly members of the academia, to demand accountability and transparency, hoping that the truth will ultimately prevail in this complex and contentious saga.
