Governor Otti Sacks Vice Chancellor of Abia State University Amid Controversy
The Abia State Government has officially removed Prof. Onyemachi Ogbulu from his position as Vice Chancellor of Abia State University, Uturu, along with several other principal officers. This decision was announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing in Umuahia following this week’s Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
In a significant reshuffle, the government appointed Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo as the new Vice Chancellor. Additionally, Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu will serve as the new Pro-Chancellor, while Prof. Catherine Uju Ifejika has been appointed Chancellor. Onwubiko Dike has also been named a member of the Governing Council. These appointments are set to take effect from November 1, 2024.
The decisions stem from the recommendations of a visitation panel report, which was approved for release on October 26, 2024. The panel highlighted several issues concerning the former Vice Chancellor, particularly regarding his “traditional title” and irregularities related to payroll admissions. It was further recommended that an investigation into these matters be launched.
The report also called for the withdrawal of the M.Phil certificate and the termination of the PhD program of the former Bursar, Mr. Chucks Chikwendu Nwaogwugwu, citing admission irregularities as the basis for these actions.
Speculation surrounding Prof. Ogbulu’s tenure had intensified in recent days, with rumors suggesting he held a traditional leadership position alongside his academic role, leading to confusion regarding his status. However, when approached for comment on the allegations, he declined to respond until he received the full panel report.
This shake-up at Abia State University marks a pivotal moment for the institution, with new leadership set to navigate the challenges ahead while addressing the findings of the visitation panel.
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