JUST IN: Ministry of Education Wades Into UNIZIK Crisis, Issues Appointment Letter to New Acting Vice-Chancellor

In a dramatic turn in the leadership saga at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, the Federal Ministry of Education has officially endorsed the appointment of Professor Carol Chinyelugo Arinze-Umobi as the institution’s new Acting Vice-Chancellor. This confirmation brings an authoritative end to days of speculation, confusion, and power tussles within the university.

Professor Arinze-Umobi’s appointment comes as the tenure of the current Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, expires on Monday, May 19, 2025. The official letter of appointment was presented to her by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi, following her nomination by the University Senate, in line with the provisions of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act, 2003.

This decisive move by the Ministry follows a chaotic few days at UNIZIK, which saw reports of a supposed “election” of another professor, A.U. Nnonyelu, as Acting VC—a claim the Governing Council quickly and publicly discredited. The Council had insisted that no university organ has the legal power to elect a Vice-Chancellor, branding the reports as an act of desperation and confusion by internal actors.

In a press release dated May 17, 2025, the Federal Ministry of Education not only acknowledged the legitimacy of Professor Arinze-Umobi’s selection but also praised the university for following due process. The Ministry confirmed that the procedures adhered to Section 5(13) of the law, which requires nomination by the Senate and final approval by the Governing Council.

Professor Arinze-Umobi, a seasoned academic with qualifications including a PhD in Law, has been tasked with overseeing the day-to-day administration of the university, ensuring stability during this transition. Her tenure is expected to last no more than six months or until a substantive Vice-Chancellor is appointed.