•UNIZIK
In a dramatic turn of events, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, who was earlier named the Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka has reverted to his former office as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration).
This followed the appointment of Professor Carol Arinze- Umobi of the institution’s Faculty of Law as the Acting Vice Chancellor by the Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe – led governing council of the university, reports Vanguard.
Ikechebelu was removed after only two months in office and following the development, he handed over to Umobi today.
Ikechebelu took over from the former Vice Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone, whose tenure ended in May this year amidst controversy.
Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor on Special Duties and Public Relations, Dr. Emma Ojukwu said the other position of Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) would be filled soon.
Ojukwu said that with the assumption of office by Umobi, the process for the appointment of the substantive Vice Chancellor would begin in earnest.
Ojukwu said: “The next meeting of the governing council will consider the process for the appointment of the substantive Vice Chancellor and after that meeting, those interested in the position will start applying.
“The joint Senate/ Council selection committee will shortlist the applications and interview the qualified candidates.
“It was made in such a way that anybody interested in becoming the VC would not be appointed Acting Vice Chancellor because the council wants to provide a level- playing field for all the contestants.
According to Ojukwu, Ikechebelu was never appointed the Acting Vice Chancellor, adding that he was only directed to oversee the affairs of the university pending when the governing council would appoint the Acting Vice Chancellor.
