By Sunny A. David, Awka

Professor Nkemdilim Austin Nnonyelu, a sociology and anthropology professor at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), topped the nominations for acting Vice Chancellor on Thursday, garnering 132 votes from the university’s Senate.

Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi, a law professor and former acting VC, received 79 votes.

Other candidates and their vote totals were: Professor Ada Sam-Omenyi (63), Professor Ezinma Nnabuife (22), and Professor Nkechi Esemonu (9).

While Professor Nnonyelu’s strong showing is notable, the university council retains the ultimate decision-making power regarding the appointment.

The recent history of acting vice chancellors at UNIZIK is marked by instability.

Professor Joseph Ikechebelu’s acting tenure was twice interrupted, first by Professor Arinze Ume-Obi, and then by Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh, before he briefly returned to the role.

Professor Ikechebelu’s latest potential candidacy to be the substantive VC is contingent on policy guidelines from the Federal Ministry of Education, which may require a non-interested candidate to assume the acting role.