The Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike is currently assessing the extent of damage caused by miscreants during a student protest that occurred on Tuesday.
During a press conference held at the university, Vice Chancellor Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe stated, “So much was damaged during the protest, which I described as a riot.”
The VC mentioned that the University Senate is scheduled to convene on Thursday to determine the next course of action.
Contrary to media reports suggesting he was manhandled by students, Professor Iwe clarified, “It was my security details that dragged me back to my vehicle to avoid an attack by the protesters.”
He attributed the destruction to miscreants who exploited the situation, emphasizing, “It is not imaginable that students of the university could have been responsible for the quantum of havoc wreaked during the riot.”
While acknowledging the challenges posed by limited funds, the VC emphasized the university’s commitment to providing quality facilities for students.
He highlighted the university’s financial constraints, stating that the monthly overhead is only N9 million while the running cost amounts to N100 million.
Addressing concerns about exam fees and alleged fee hikes, Professor Iwe clarified, “The policy of not allowing students to sit for exams without paying their complete charges is not peculiar to MOUAU.” He also refuted claims of a 60% fee increase, labeling such reports as false.
Regarding the implementation of biometric verification and efforts to combat academic misconduct, he underscored the administration’s commitment to upholding academic integrity and addressing systemic issues within the university.
Professor Iwe vowed to take decisive action against individuals, including staff, found to compromise institutional standards.
The protest erupted in response to the management’s decision to restrict access to examination halls, resulting in the destruction of several university buildings.
