Soludo Explains Reason Behind Naming Omenugha as Vice-Chancellor of COOU

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By Vincent Ujumadu

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Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has explained that merit, experience and proven leadership informed the appointment of Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha as the fifth substantive Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam.

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Speaking at a thanksgiving Mass held at St. Paul Catholic Church, Nnobi, to mark Omenugha’s first anniversary in office as Vice-Chancellor and the 70th birthday of her husband, Dr. Michael Omenugha, the governor said she emerged as the most qualified candidate for the position.

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Soludo said Omenugha’s outstanding record in the education sector, particularly her firm stance against examination malpractice during her tenure as Anambra State Commissioner for Education, distinguished her from other contenders.

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He recalled that under her leadership as commissioner, the state government shut down more than 486 so-called “miracle centres” involved in examination malpractice, describing the move as a demonstration of courage, integrity and commitment to educational excellence.

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According to the governor, Omenugha embodies the quality of leadership required to advance his administration’s vision of transforming Anambra into a smart, digital, livable and prosperous state by 2070.

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Soludo also disclosed that he came under pressure from influential individuals to appoint another candidate from the university’s professorial community but resisted the lobbying in favour of what he described as the best-qualified person for the job.

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“I refused to succumb to pressure because the interest of the university and the state was paramount,” the governor said, stressing that merit remains the guiding principle for appointments under his administration.

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The thanksgiving service and birthday celebration were attended by government officials, political associates, academics, members of the clergy, family members and other well-wishers.

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