BY PROF. SERGIUS NJOKU
The recent appeal by Kpokotenu Nsukka to President Tinubu for an Nsukka native to be considered for the position of Vice-Chancellor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) raises critical concerns regarding the principles of equity, fairness, and meritocracy in leadership appointments. While it is understandable for a community to advocate for representation, it is essential to critically assess the implications of such demands and ensure that meritocracy is not compromised for parochial interests.
The argument put forward by Kpokotenu Nsukka, emphasizing historical exclusion and sacrifices made by the community, may be valid. However, the solution should not be to unduly prioritize one specific local community at the expense of broader regional and national balance and inclusivity. The call for an Nsukka candidate to be considered for the VC position risks reducing the prestigious UNN to a parochial institution driven by narrow and clannish sentiments rather than a beacon of academic excellence and merit-based selection criteria guided by the universal values of knowledge dissemination and scholarly pursuit. The appeal and the reasons for the appeal undermines the foundational principles of equity, fairness, justice, and meritocracy and perpetuates clannish sentiments at the expense of broader inclusivity.
Embracing a myopic view that prioritizes the locality of candidates over their qualifications is not only regressive but also undermines the reputation and academic excellence of institutions like UNN. The essence of higher education institutions lies in fostering diversity, excellence, and innovation through the appointment of the most deserving and competent individuals, regardless of their geographical origins. The history of VC appointments at UNN reveals a concerning trend of predominant representation from specific states, notably Enugu, Anambra, and Abia, while disregarding the legitimate aspirations of Imo State and Ebonyi State.
Analyzing the historical facts available, there is unequivocal evidence that Enugu State, with Nsukka community forming an integral part, has been amply represented in leadership posts at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). The consecutive tenure of Vice-Chancellors from Enugu State marks an implication of substantial representation within the university’s governance. Indeed, a more in-depth examination of the data underscores that Enugu State held the UNN Vice-Chancellorship for an uninterrupted ten-year period from 2004 to 2014. This sequence was under the leadership of Prof. Chinedu O.Nebo (2004-2009) and later Prof. Bartho Okolo (2009-2014), as Vice Chancellors.
Furthermore, it’s noteworthy to highlight that Anambra State has also had noteworthy representation with approximately twenty-seven (27) years of leadership. These tenures stemmed from the administrations of distinguished personnel such as Prof. H.O. Kodilinye (1971-1975), Prof. J.O.C. Ezilo (1975-1978), Prof. Ginigeme Mbanefoh (1997-2004), Prof. Benjamin Ozumba (2014-2019), and Prof. Charles Igwe (2019 -2024). Similarly, we can’t overlook the contribution of Abia State, which has led for about twenty (20) years under the able stewardship of Prof. Eni Njoku (1966-1971), Prof. Chimere Ikoku (1985-1992), and Prof. Oleka Udeala (1992 -1995).
As an internationally recognized institution, the UNN has had Vice-Chancellors commanding the helm from different regions across the country, extending even to international territories. At the outset in 1960, distinguished scholars, Dr. George Marion Johnson and Prof. Glen Targgat, both from the United States, served as the Vice-Chancellors from 1960 to 1964 and 1964-1966, respectively.
Likewise, Prof. Umar Shehu, from Borno State, led the institution from 1978 to 1980. Prof. Frank Ndili, a Delta State native, and Prof. Umaru Gomwalk, from Plateau State, held the prestigious Vice-Chancellor post from 1980 to 1985 and 1995 to 1997, in sequential order. Interestingly, records reveal that despite corruption allegations leveled against him, Prof. Frank Ndili was heralded as the most outstanding Vice-Chancellor in the history of UNN since its inception in 1960. A vivid confirmation that immense contributions and excellence can come from individuals outside the Enugu State or, indeed, the Nsukka Community.
Nevertheless, it is evident that the lack of Imo State representation in the highest echelons of UNN’s leadership constitutes a glaring oversight in the pursuit of diversity and balanced regional inclusivity. This oversight not only perpetuates a skewed power dynamics within the institution but also undermines the principles of meritocracy and fair competition. Moreover, the current domination of leadership positions at UNN by individuals from Enugu State underscores the pressing need for a more inclusive and diverse representation that truly reflects the multi-faceted nature of our society. The excessive concentration of power and influence in the hands of a single geographical entity not only stifles diversity of perspectives but also hampers the growth and advancement of the institution in a global context.
In addition to dominating the council membership, in the last ten years, Enugu State indigenes have continuously occupied the post of DV Administration, bursar, registrar, and librarian. As it stands today, the 15-member council tasked with overseeing the governance of the university paints an imbalanced picture in regard to state representation. Seven influential positions, namely the Acting Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Registrar and four other key members, are occupied by Enugu State. Furthermore, the remaining cadre of the council consists of individuals from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Ekiti states.
However, despite this diversity in the governing council, it’s important to note a glaring omission – there isn’t a single representation from Imo State, neither elected nor nominated. What deepens this concern is the realization that other states, such as Ebonyi, not only have a representative but even hold prominent roles of Deputy Vice Chancellor and an elected council member. For the sake of balance, fairness, and inclusive representation, it is crucial to urge the necessity of introducing an able member from Imo State into this governing body. By doing so, the principle of equal representation will be solidified and the unity and integrity of the University Council strengthened.
Therefore, the call for a candidate from Imo State to be considered for the position of UNN Vice Chancellor is not merely a matter of regional representation but a reflection of the core values of fairness and equity that should underpin such critical appointments. Imo State, as one of the states in the South-East region yet to produce a Vice-Chancellor for UNN, presents a compelling case for equitable representation and opportunities. The absence of Imo State and Ebonyi State in the history of UNN Vice-Chancellor appointments reflects a notable imbalance that requires urgent redress to align with the core principles of fairness and justice. Moreover, the current concentration of leadership positions within UNN among individuals from Enugu State raises questions about the broader spectrum of talent and expertise that could be fostered by tapping into the reservoir of qualified candidates from other states within the South-East region.
By advocating for a more equitable and merit-based approach to leadership appointments, we can collectively uphold the values of fairness, justice, and diversity that are essential for the growth and prosperity of institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. In the spirit of inclusivity and progress, let us prioritize competence over clan, merit over parochialism, and excellence over regional bias in shaping the future of our esteemed academic institutions, especially, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
In conclusion, the appeal by Kpokotenu Nsukka, though well-intentioned, must be seen in the broader context of promoting equity, fairness, and meritocracy in educational institutions. Imo State, alongside Ebonyi State, deserves fair representation in the leadership of UNN to ensure a vibrant and inclusive academic community that upholds the highest standards of excellence and integrity.
