The 'Concerned Indigenes of Host Communities' for Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Abia State is urging that merit should be the guiding principle in the selection of the next Vice Chancellor. As the current Vice Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Iwe, nears the end of his term, the group emphasizes the importance of a transparent and fair selection process to avoid manipulation.

Spokesman Chinweuba Anyaragbu, along with his colleagues, voiced concerns regarding the Governing Council's decision to move the interviews for Vice Chancellor candidates to Abuja, which they believe could compromise the integrity of the selection process. Anyaragbu argues that the choice of venue should reflect the university's commitment to inclusiveness and local engagement, key factors in maintaining the faith of the host community.

The discourse around this selection process highlights the broader issue of governance and accountability within Nigerian universities. The group's appeal for meritocracy suggests a growing expectation within the community not only for good leadership in educational institutions but also for methods that ensure those in charge are chosen based on competence and capability, which they believe is crucial for the institution's growth and progress.