Prof. Chike Osegbue, a leading contender for the Vice Chancellor seat at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, has dismissed reports of his removal from office as untrue.
Speaking with journalists in Awka on Sunday, the Professor of Political Economics and Development Studies said he received no official notice of dismissal. He described the story circulating since last weekend as “phony” and a deliberate attempt to shift focus from deeper issues at COOU.
*Allegations vs Facts*
Osegbue noted that his suspension since January was based on claims that he failed to lecture an MSc course, PSC 811: Environmental Politics and Sustainable Development, and did not conduct exams for the students. He countered that no students were available for the course at the time because admission came just days before exams began.
*Core Dispute: VC Appointment*
The professor insists the real issue is the VC selection process. According to him, he emerged top of the selection exercise and was recommended by Council to the Visitor. However, the Visitor appointed the candidate who ranked 5th, in August 2024.
“This is why I’m in court seeking interpretation of relevant sections of the law,” Osegbue said. “We’ve had three court sessions, but each time they file frivolous motions that force adjournments. They’re just buying time.”
*Questions Over Council Legality*
He also faulted the newly inaugurated University Council that announced his “sack” on June 12. Osegbue argued the Council is improperly constituted because it lacks elected representatives from Senate, Congregation, and Convocation as required by the university’s law. Only government appointees and Senate reps are present, and even those appointees were reappointed contrary to the statute.
“They want to bury the real issues and change the narrative. But justice will prevail,” he added.
The case continues in court, with Osegbue challenging the Visitor and current VC over the appointment process.
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