The Abia State Government has officially replaced the Vice Chancellor and several other key figures at Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), marking a significant administrative shift for the institution. The decision, which includes the removal of Prof. Onyemachi Ogbulu as Vice Chancellor, was announced on Monday by Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing in Umuahia.
The appointment of Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo as the new Vice Chancellor takes effect on November 1, 2024, as part of sweeping changes in ABSU’s leadership structure. Joining him in this transition are Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu as the new Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Catherine Uju Ifejika as Chancellor, and Onwubiko Dike as a member of the Governing Council.
According to Commissioner Kanu, additional appointments have been made, including new Deputy Vice Chancellors, Senate members, and representatives from the congregation, convocation, and the Ministry of Education, alongside the appointment of a new Bursar.
The leadership overhaul follows recommendations made by the ABSU Visitation Panel, which were reviewed and published on October 26, 2024. The panel advised further investigation into Prof. Ogbulu’s activities, particularly concerning issues related to his “traditional title and Payroll admissions.”
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The report also highlighted irregularities in the academic records of former Bursar Mr. Chucks Chikwendu Nwaogwugwu, leading to a recommendation to revoke his M.Phil certificate and terminate his PhD program due to alleged inconsistencies in his admission process.
Amid prior rumors surrounding his resignation, Prof. Ogbulu, who had also faced allegations about his traditional ruler status, refrained from commenting publicly until receiving the formal report. His removal, along with other structural changes, signals a new direction for ABSU as the university implements these recommendations.
This leadership change is part of Governor Alex Otti’s broader agenda to reform educational institutions in Abia State. The newly appointed officials are expected to steer ABSU towards greater accountability and academic integrity, reflecting the state’s commitment to quality higher education.