By Jude Michael
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) Chapter, has raised alarm over the Pro-Chancellor’s, Greg Mbadiwe’s, alleged dictatorial tendencies in selecting the university’s Vice Chancellor.
Comrade Kingsley Ubaoji, Chairperson of ASUU NAU, addressed the press on Tuesday, highlighting concerns about Mbadiwe’s actions.
According to Ubaoji, the Pro-Chancellor had been displaying alarming dictatorial tendencies since the Council’s inauguration on July 4, 2024.
‘He has made unilateral decisions without proper consultation or approval, undermining the authority of the Council, Ubaoji said, adding, ‘Specifically, the Pro-Chancellor appointed an Acting Vice Chancellor and advertised for the Registrar position without including representatives from Senate, Congregation, and Convocation,’ Ubaoji alleged.
Ubaoji maintained that ASUU NAU wrote to the Pro-Chancellor on September 10, 2024, requesting proper composition of the Council before proceeding with any business.
‘Despite this, the Pro-Chancellor continued to act unilaterally, directing the publication of the Vice Chancellor vacancy in the Vanguard Newspaper on September 12, 2024. This move was strongly objected to by ASUU through a letter dated September 14, 2024.
‘The University Senate, during its meeting on October 16, 2024, expressed great reservations over the Pro-Chancellor’s dictatorial disposition and the eligibility criteria for the Vice Chancellor position.
‘Senate members noted that the criteria seemed tailored to favour a specific individual, rather than attracting a diverse range of qualified candidates.
‘The Senate deferred nominations and called for a review of the criteria, requesting a joint meeting with the Council,’ he maintained.
Ubaoji stated that the Pro-Chancellor’s actions had ominous implications for industrial peace on campus.
‘He has disregarded the concerns of Council members, particularly representatives of the internal constituencies of Senate, Congregation, and Convocation. The Pro-Chancellor’s disregard for institutional processes and procedures undermines the collective decision-making process.
‘The eligibility criteria listed in the advertisement for Vice Chancellor have raised concerns. The emphasis on research grants and the requirement of a proven record of having attracted not less than N400 million is restrictive and will disqualify numerous suitable candidates.
‘Critical issues like evidence of university administrative experience and global reputation were left out, apparently because the “anointed candidate” lacks such experience.
‘If left unchecked, the Pro-Chancellor’s actions may lead to erosion of trust and confidence in the Council, institutional instability, conflict, and damage to the university’s reputation and credibility,’ he said.
ASUU urged the Chief of Staff to the President and the Minister of Education to intervene and ensure the Pro-Chancellor operated within his authority, respecting collective governance and due process.
Ubaoji emphasized that ASUU would not stand aloof while the university’s integrity was compromised.
The union called on the general public, the media, and stakeholders to join them in bringing ‘these unlawful actions to the attention of the authorities.’
It was gathered that the development had sparked concerns among stakeholders, with many calling for urgent intervention to prevent a crisis in the university.
