The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government of Benue state has publicly disowned some group allegedly protesting the appointment of the Vice Chancellor Federal University Health Sciences located in Otukpo.
The Council boss, hon Alfred Omaku Oketa made the declaration while while visiting the head of the Institution to apologize to him over the embarrassing protest carried out by a section of the youths.
Speaking further on the matter, the Chairman, stated that the courtesy call was aimed at familiarizing with the University management. While acknowledging the invaluable role played by the erstwhile President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator David Alechenu Mark in the establishment of the University.
He expressed confidence on the managerial acumen of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Innocent Ujah in navigating the the Institution to greater heights.
Hon. Oketa used the opportunity to formally apologized to the VC and the management for the unwarranted protest organized by a section of misguided youths recently that disrupted the peace within the University community.
He maintained that the protest did not reflect the overwhelming opinion of the host community, nor did it enjoy the blessing of the Elders, Traditional Council, and the Idoma worldwide.
He, however, urged the VC to do all within his powers to bring about more inclusivity in areas of employment for the host community. On his part as the Chief Security Officer of Otukpo, Hon. Oketa pledged to synergize with the security architecture within the Council area to bring about lasting peace and tranquility, especially within the University community.
The VC while appreciating the Chairman and his team for the visit. He recalled that Otukpo is his second home having had his Primary Education at Saint Mary Primary School, Otukpo. He described the visit as a morale booster, maintaining that he is being jolted to do more
The meeting which was held at the council chamber on Thursday, March 7, 2024.and had in attendance the management staff.