Luck, Fate, and the Hegelian Absolute Spirit: X-raying the Emergence of Professor Oguejiofor Ujam as the Acting Vice Chancellor of University of Nigera

In an unexpected twist of fate, Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, the immediate past Dean of the School of General Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has found himself stepping into the role of Acting Vice Chancellor after the federal government’s recent reshuffling. This development came at a time when the Selection Committee for the Vice Chancellor’s position was set to be formed, with Professor Ujam among those vying for a position on the committee from the University Senate. However, before the election could take place, the federal government intervened with a reshuffling that saw the exit of the sitting Acting Vice Chancellor and appointment of Professor Ujam to the position. Frankly speaking, this sudden development has left many in the academic community stunned, including Professor Ujam himself.

The notion of luck, often perceived as a mere chance event, takes on a profound significance in this scenario. Luck can be considered the intersection of opportunity and preparation; while Professor Ujam had expressed interest in the election for the joint-Senate and Council Selection Committee position, the federal government’s decision has propelled him into a role he never anticipated. It is an illustration of how life can pivot unexpectedly, offering individuals opportunities at times and in ways they least expect. What may appear as mere chance or unexpected event for Professor Ujam could very well serve as a catalyst for profound transformation within the university.

This unexpected twist, which has sparked discussions about the role of luck and fate in shaping our lives, also brings into mind, Hegel’s popular notion of the ‘Absolute Spirit’. Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, a great German philosopher, is widely associated with the concept of the Absolute Spirit. On this concept, the Absolute Spirit manifests in such a way that individual actions and circumstances converge to shape a larger reality. According to Hegel, the Absolute Spirit manifests itself and its activities through heroes who change the course of history. The implication here is that the movers and shakers of the nations of the world are nothing but special instruments used cunningly by the Absolute Spirit to further the process of its self-development. These individuals think that they are the architects of their actions and inactions, but unknown to them, the Absolute Spirit is only using them to execute its design.

With Professor Ujam’s sudden rise to the Acting Vice Chancellorship position, he has found himself in Hegel’s category of ‘historic individuals’. Hegel’s historic individuals are those individuals whose actions are excluded from moral assessment, the reason being that, according to Hegel, the question of morality does not arise once we find ourselves on the plane of world-history. In Hegel’s philosophy, the Absolute Spirit represents the ultimate stage of human knowledge and understanding, where individual consciousness merges with the universal spirit. In this context, Professor Ujam’s appointment can be seen as a moment of convergence, where his individual aspirations and circumstances intersect with the larger needs of the university and the federal government. As Professor Ujam assumes his new position, his responsibility transcends personal aspirations; it encompasses the collective aspirations of the university community. His appointment signifies not only a personal milestone but also an alignment with the ‘Absolute Spirit’—the harmonizing force of societal evolution. Under his leadership, the university may witness a period of renewed hope and progress, further intertwining the threads of individual fate with the broader narrative of institutional growth.

Moreover, this juxtaposition of luck and Hegel’s philosophy serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and leadership. Professor Ujam’s ascension to the role of Acting Vice Chancellor reflects both chance and the necessity for adaptability in the face of unforeseen circumstances. As he navigates the challenges ahead, he must draw from his experiences and insights to guide the university through this transitional phase. At this juncture, it is instructive to note that, while luck may have played a role in Professor Ujam’s appointment, his appointment is also a testament to his hard work and dedication to the academic community. As he assumes this new role, he will undoubtedly face challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

As members of the academic community look on, they are reminded that luck does not merely favor the prepared, but can also manifest in opportunities for personal growth and transformation. Professor Ujam’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the dynamic interplay between individual ambition and the larger forces of history. The university, with its roots deeply embedded in academic rigor and societal development, now stands at a crossroads—guided by the hand of luck and the unwavering march towards a greater understanding of the Absolute Spirit of the great German philosopher, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel.

As we reflect on this unexpected development, we are reminded that life is full of twists and turns, and that sometimes, luck and fate can intervene in unexpected ways. In line with Hegel’s affirmation that the Absolute Spirit is the unity of the subjective and objective spirit, Professor Ujam’s appointment represents a moment of unity, where individual and institutional interests converge to shape a new reality. Whether or not he ultimately remains in his role, this moment encapsulates a narrative of luck, philosophical significance, and the inspiring capacity for personal growth amidst the currents of history.

For me, this discourse is neither about the personality of Professor Ujam, nor the merit or otherwise of his appointment as the Acting Vice Chancellor of one of Nigeria’s foremost universities. The discourse is basically a philosophical reflection on the mystery of life and the moral/philosophical lessons underpinning his appointment. This write-up offers several moral/philosophical insights that can be used for advice and motivation. Here are some key takeaways: First, the story of Professor Ujam and his sudden rise to his new office highlights that luck is not just a chance event, but rather the intersection of opportunity and preparation. This insight encourages individuals to be prepared for unexpected opportunities and to seize them when they arise. Second, Professor Ujam’s journey demonstrates the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. This insight reminds individuals to be flexible and to draw upon their experiences and insights to navigate uncertain situations. Third, ‘the Ujam story’ reminds us that life is unpredictable, and that we must be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances. This insight encourages individuals to cultivate a mindset that is open to new experiences and challenges. Fourth, the concept of the Absolute Spirit suggests that individual experiences and actions contribute to a larger, collective reality. This idea encourages individuals to consider their roles within the broader context of society and to work towards the greater good. Fifth, and the greatest of all, the thrilling story of Professor Oguejiofor Ujam and his journey to Acting Vice Chancellorship conveys the powerful message that, anybody could become anything, anytime, as it pleases the Supreme Power of the Universe. In conclusion, I wish Professor Ujam a resounding success in this divine appointment.

Prof. Nicholas U. Asogwa (JP),
Professor of Ethics,
Department of Philosophy,
University of Nigeria

February 14, 2025

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