Acting Vice-Chancellor Accused of Violating Standing Orders; Case Adjourned to January 2025
A Federal High Court sitting in Enugu has ordered the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to halt its planned convocation election following allegations of procedural violations by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Polycarp Chigbu. The court decision came after some aspirants filed a suit, alleging breaches of the university’s Standing Orders of Convocation Proceedings.
Allegations of Irregularities
The plaintiffs, in suit number FHC/E/CS/217/2024, accused Professor Chigbu of unilaterally altering the election procedures initially published on November 7, 2024. They claim the Acting Vice-Chancellor issued a revised set of procedures on November 21 without convening a properly constituted convocation meeting as required by the Standing Orders.
The Standing Orders stipulate that any amendments to convocation proceedings must be approved by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting during a convocation meeting.
Judicial Intervention
The court, after reviewing evidence that UNN and other defendants had been served with court processes, emphasized the legal requirement for all parties to stay action on the disputed election process until the matter is resolved.
During Thursday’s session, the presiding judge reminded the university that proceeding with the election while the case is pending in court would be unacceptable under the law. The case has been adjourned to January 15, 2025, for further hearing.
Reactions and Concerns
One of the plaintiffs expressed disappointment with the Acting Vice-Chancellor’s approach, calling it a “fraudulent tactic” and urging UNN’s Pro-Chancellor, General Ike Nwachukwu (Rtd), to ensure adherence to due process.
“Members of the Senate are part of the convocation, yet this matter was never mentioned in any Senate meeting. Who are these ‘stakeholders’ the Acting Vice-Chancellor is consulting?” the plaintiff questioned.
Sources within the university have suggested the need for reforms in the convocation election process but insist that any changes must comply with existing laws and regulations.
Questions Over Integrity of Online Voting Process
Concerns have also been raised about ARROW FAST LIMITED, the company hired to handle online registration and voting for the election. Investigations revealed that the company, registered as RC No. 1408710, has no prior experience conducting such projects, leading to suspicions about the fairness and transparency of the process.
Legal Counsel and University’s Silence
The plaintiffs’ counsel, Barrister C.D. Eze, stated that the university’s actions are now subject to the court’s decision. “The judge made it clear that whatever UNN does regarding the election is subject to the court’s ruling since the institution has been served,” Eze said.
When contacted, UNN’s Legal Adviser, Barrister M.A. Obayi, declined to comment on the ongoing matter.
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