The Management of Tansian University, Umunya has clarified reports circulating in the media concerning the tenure of its late Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nnamdi Dike Umeoduagu.
In the official statement released on 5th October 2026, the University said it has noted with concern various reports suggesting that Prof. Umeoduagu served as Acting Vice-Chancellor for only two days prior to his death, describing it as an inaccurate representation of the facts.
According to the University, Prof. Umeoduagu was formally authorised to act in the office of the Vice-Chancellor well before the recent transition, following the commencement of the medical absence of the substantive Vice-Chancellor.
He consequently served in an acting capacity for approximately two months, from the period when the substantive Vice-Chancellor proceeded on medical leave until the expiration of the substantive Vice-Chancellor’s tenure on 30th September, 2026 and until his sudden demise.
The University stressed that his assumption of office was not a sudden development of merely two days, but part of an established administrative arrangement that had been formally communicated to public and regulatory bodies and authorised in accordance with the University’s governance processes.
The Registrar, Rev. Dr. Innocent Anthony Uke, stated that the clarification has become important not merely to correct an inaccurate narrative, but also to properly acknowledge the period of service and sacrifice rendered by Prof. Umeoduagu during a critical period in the life of the University.
The University added that it will support the desire of the family to authorize an autopsy with a view to determining the real cause of death of the young and promising scholar.
Prof. Umeoduagu was described as a young, vibrant, promising and deeply committed academic who demonstrated strong commitment to strengthening academic programmes and improving institutional standards.
About Author
