The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, is at the center of a major contract scandal after its Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Ikechebelu Joseph, allegedly awarded a perimeter fencing contract twice—first in 2024 and again in 2025 at more than double the original cost.
An investigation revealed that the first contract was awarded to Messrs Abdullahi Hawawo Construction Co. Limited in 2024 for ₦180,031,437.50. However, in February 2025, the same project was reassigned to Dukonni Nigeria Limited for ₦370,738,367.05, without officially revoking the initial contract.
Sources within UNIZIK stated that the second contract was awarded without following due process. The original contractor had already mobilized equipment to the site when the project was reassigned in secrecy.
“There was no formal revocation of the first contract,” a university insider disclosed. “The Acting VC simply reassigned the project at a higher cost without justification.”
Critics describe the move as “double contracting,” warning that it could lead to legal and financial troubles for the university.
In a letter dated February 19, 2025, the legal team of Messrs Abdullahi Hawawo Construction Co. Ltd formally challenged the university’s decision, accusing it of contract violation and threatening legal action.
“The law is clear: A legally awarded contract cannot be revoked and reassigned without formal notice and adherence to termination procedures,” the legal representatives stated.
The firm demanded that UNIZIK:
– Pay the agreed Mobilisation Fund under the original contract terms.
– Immediately halt work by Dukonni Nigeria Limited.
– Reinstate Messrs Abdullahi Hawawo Construction Co. Ltd as the rightful contractor.
Failure to comply, the company warned, would lead to a court injunction stopping work on the project.
Attempts to get a response from Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Ikechebelu Joseph were unsuccessful. Instead of addressing the allegations, he allegedly attempted to suppress the report by redirecting journalists to negotiate its removal.
The scandal has sparked outrage among students, staff, and alumni, with many calling for an independent investigation.
“This is unacceptable,” a student activist remarked. “A university should be a symbol of integrity, not corruption.”
UNIZIK has been facing governance issues in recent months, including the dissolution of its Governing Council and the removal of both the Vice Chancellor and Registrar over an unrelated appointment scandal.
With legal battles looming, the controversy raises further questions about transparency and accountability within the institution’s leadership.
