By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has directed the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), Professor Ikechukwu Dozie, to reverse the appointment of 24 aides in his office. The directive came on June 25, 2026, through an official memo issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in Abuja. The ministry said the appointments violated regulations governing federal universities and ordered immediate compliance.
Ministry Raises Concerns Over Due Process
According to the memo signed by Kareem O.L., Acting Director of University Education, the ministry reviewed a university memorandum referenced FUT/REG/CR/CIR/4 dated June 22, 2026.
The document announced the appointment of 24 aides to serve in various capacities within the Vice-Chancellor’s office.
However, the ministry stated that the appointments did not follow established procedures. It also noted that they conflicted with existing regulations guiding federal universities.
The memo said the appointments were inconsistent with due process and administrative standards expected within the Federal University System.
Minister Demands Immediate Compliance
Consequently, Alausa directed Professor Dozie to revoke the appointments without delay.
The minister also instructed the vice-chancellor to submit evidence confirming compliance with the directive.
“The appointments are at variance with extant regulations, established procedures, and the principles of due process governing appointments within the Federal University System,” the memo stated.
Vice-Chancellor Summoned for Further Engagement
In addition, the ministry invited Professor Dozie to appear before officials on Monday, June 29, 2026.
The meeting will address the appointments and other matters relating to institutional governance, accountability, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.
According to the ministry, the engagement will focus on strengthening administrative processes within federal universities.
NUC Receives Copy of Directive
The Federal Ministry of Education also copied the National Universities Commission (NUC) in the correspondence.
This move highlights the seriousness of the matter and reinforces the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability in tertiary institutions.
The memo emphasized that the ministry remains committed to promoting best practices and prudent management across Nigeria’s higher education sector.
About Professor Dozie
Professor Ikechukwu Dozie, a Professor of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, assumed office as FUTO’s ninth Vice-Chancellor on June 19, 2026.
He succeeded Professor Nnenna Oti, who completed her five-year tenure.
Before joining FUTO, Dozie served as Vice-Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University (KOMU) in Imo State.
