Following the release of the ABSU Visitation Panel report, Gov. Alex Otti has sacked ABSU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Onyemachi Ogbulu, and other top officials amid allegations. The leadership overhaul highlights lingering issues as new appointments are set to take effect November 1.
In a sweeping administrative change, Governor Alex Otti has enforced the recommendations of the Abia State University (ABSU) Visitation Panel, resulting in the removal of Vice Chancellor Prof. Onyemachi Ogbulu and several top officials. This decision, disclosed by Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu during an Executive Council briefing in Umuahia, has sparked controversy as unconfirmed allegations against the former VC continue to circulate.
The Commissioner announced that Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo will assume the role of Vice Chancellor effective November 1, while other new appointments include Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu as Pro-Chancellor and Prof. Catherine Uju Ifejika as Chancellor. Additionally, Onwubiko Dike and other academic figures have joined the ABSU Governing Council, following the panel’s recommendations.
Governor Otti’s decision follows a recently concluded investigation by the ABSU Visitation Panel. Although the panel’s report has been partially disclosed, insiders suggest a series of hidden allegations against Prof. Ogbulu that were not made public, contributing to the decision to remove him from office. These allegations reportedly cover a range of controversial issues related to academic governance and alleged administrative misconduct.
The panel’s recommendations included further investigation into Prof. Ogbulu’s tenure, with a particular focus on admissions and payroll discrepancies. Additionally, former Bursar Mr. Chucks Chikwendu Nwaogwugwu faces consequences as the panel advised the withdrawal of his M.Phil certificate and termination of his Ph.D. program, citing irregularities in his academic record.
As the new leadership prepares to take charge, many in Abia State’s academic and public spheres are left speculating about the full extent of the allegations and whether further details will be disclosed. Governor Otti has assured the public that the government remains committed to upholding academic standards and fostering a transparent administration at ABSU.
