FUHSO VC Visits Och’Idoma, Expresses Solidarity Following Otukpo Security Incident

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), Professor Francis Aba Uba, has led the university’s management on a condolence visit to the Paramount Ruler of the Idoma Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Agabaidu Elaigwu John, Och’Idoma V and Chairman of the Idoma Area Traditional Council, following a recent security incident in Otukpo that resulted in the loss of innocent lives.

The visit, which took place on Tuesday, July 22, 2026, was aimed at expressing the university’s sympathy and solidarity with the traditional institution, affected families and the entire Idoma Kingdom during the period of mourning.

Professor Uba, on behalf of the Governing Council, management, staff and students of FUHSO, conveyed the university’s condolences to Och’Idoma and assured him of the institution’s continued support.

The Vice-Chancellor described the incident as a painful tragedy and prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved families. He also encouraged the traditional ruler to remain steadfast in providing leadership and guidance to his people.

He praised Och’Idoma’s leadership style, describing his humility, compassion and open-door approach as qualities that have earned him the respect and trust of the people.

Professor Uba further commended the monarch’s commitment to promoting peace, unity and development across the Idoma Kingdom, reaffirming FUHSO’s willingness to support initiatives aimed at improving security and wellbeing within its host community.

Responding, Och’Idoma expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and encouraging. He acknowledged the challenges facing the kingdom but noted that normalcy was gradually returning after the security incident.

The traditional ruler called for greater unity among the people of Idoma, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies in protecting their communities.

Och’Idoma also disclosed that the traditional institution was working with relevant security authorities to address ongoing security concerns, emphasising that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collaboration among stakeholders.

The visit was attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Godwin Friday Okibe; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Cecilia Ojabo; Registrar, Mr Michael Okoko Ogiji; Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Christopher Abah; Deputy Registrar, Mr Sunday Obida; and members of the university’s media team.

The engagement highlights FUHSO’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with its host community and supporting efforts towards peace, security and sustainable development in Otukpo and the wider Idoma Kingdom.