Speaking at a thanks giving service and reception organised for him by the head of the Uwazuruike family, Chief Kevin Enyinnaya Uwazuruike, on behalf of the family, the new provost said he did not lobby Gov. Achike Udenwa.

This reaction was contained in a statement credited to the provost where he reportedly made a promise not to betray the confidence reposed in him by the governor.

"I am a team player and will always make myself available to constructive criticisms," Prof. Uwazuruike said.

Commenting on the achievements of the new provost, head of the Uwazuruike dynasty, Chief Kevin Uwazuruike said he was not surprised.

He said the professor had exhibited innate leadership qualities right from his under graduate days at the Eastern Michigan University in the United States (U.S.).

"Young Uwazuruike’s academic prowess was distinct to the extent that he was honoured with the Deans list scholarship," the statement added.

Earlier in his message at the thanksgiving service, Rev. Fr. Dr. Okonkwo (Okosisi) urged leaders to see appointment as a call to duty and seek God’s guidance in all they do, warning them against the calamity of I-Know-it-all mentality.

Prof. Uwazuruike was a former Dean, Faculty of Education at the Imo State University, Owerri before his appointment last April as provost. He is the first alumnus of the college to head it.