UNN: VC race heats up, 5 profs contest position

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is abuzz with anticipation as the search for an acting Vice Chancellor intensifies.

Former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Polycarp Emeka Chigbu has clarified that the selection process is far from over, despite circulating rumors about his purported appointment.

According to the Guardian, Prof. Chigbu dispelled the false reports, emphasizing that the responsibility of appointing an acting vice chancellor lies with the University’s governing council. He urged the public to disregard any misleading information.

“It has come to my attention that reports are circulating online claiming that I have been elected as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I wish to categorically state that no such appointment has been made. I have not been appointed as the Acting Vice Chancellor, and any reports suggesting otherwise are both false and unsubstantiated,” Chigbu asserted.

The academic community was recently engaged in a rigorous election process on August 12, 2024, where the Senate narrowed down nine candidates to five distinguished professors. These names have been forwarded to the governing council for further scrutiny and ultimate selection.

“The process to elect an Acting Vice Chancellor remains ongoing and has not yet reached a conclusion. On August 12, 2024, the Senate conducted elections among nine candidates, from which five professors were selected and their names forwarded to the University Governing Council for further consideration and vetting. Subsequently, the Governing Council will choose one of these five candidates to serve as the Acting Vice Chancellor. Therefore, any news circulating in the media is incorrect and lacks any basis,” Chigbu elaborated.

The university community now eagerly awaits the governing council’s decision, which promises to shape the immediate future of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious educational institutions.