Students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, have called on the Federal Government to comply with the National Industrial Court’s judgment ordering the reinstatement of Prof. Bernard Odoh as the university’s Vice-Chancellor.

The Governing Council of UNIZIK, led by Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Greg Mbadiwe, had on October 29, 2024, appointed Prof. Odoh as the seventh substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution, following a screening and interview process that involved at least 18 other candidates.

However, on November 20, 2024, President Bola Tinubu reportedly dissolved the university’s Governing Council and removed Odoh, along with Registrar Mrs. Rosemary Nwokike. The Presidential statement cited claims that the council had appointed an “unqualified Vice-Chancellor without following due process,” asserting that Odoh was not a full professor.

Following his removal, Odoh approached the Industrial Court in Abuja, which affirmed his status as a full professor, countering allegations from some quarters that he was ineligible for the position. The court also awarded Odoh N5 million in costs against the Federal Government and directed the university to issue a public apology on national media.

Reacting to the ruling in Awka, Chisom Nwangwu, President of the Nigerian Students and Youth Association, UNIZIK chapter, urged the Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Alausa, to act promptly in reinstating Odoh in accordance with the court’s decision.

Nwangwu, speaking with other students present, said Odoh’s removal had been based on unfounded claims about his academic qualifications. He stated, “The court has affirmed that Odoh was promoted to the rank of Professor in 2015 and has ordered that all his rights and entitlements be fully restored. Students are therefore calling on the Federal Government to reinstate him as Vice-Chancellor.

“Respecting court judgments is essential for nation-building and cannot be optional. Failure to implement valid court rulings undermines democratic values and sets a dangerous precedent.”

He further highlighted that Odoh is the first UNIZIK alumnus to serve as Vice-Chancellor, describing his removal as unfortunate and motivated by malicious claims aimed at undermining a young academic with a clear vision for the university’s growth.

The students appealed directly to President Tinubu, urging him to ensure compliance with the court ruling. They emphasized that such action would restore public confidence in democratic institutions and reassure young Nigerians that justice, fairness, and equality before the law remain achievable in the country.