Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Appeals for Peaceful Transition

The Vice-Chancellor and Management of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) have addressed recent media reports alleging the arrest of university staff by the Department of State Services (DSS), and claims that the purported arrests were ordered by the Chairman of the Governing Council due to staff demands for indigeneship considerations in the next Vice-Chancellor appointment.

The University Management has clarified that no staff have been arrested and that the Chairman of the Governing Council could not have directed any security agency without informing the University Management.

In light of these reports, the Vice-Chancellor and Management appeal to all stakeholders to support a peaceful transition, stressing that peace is essential for sustaining the achievements of the current administration led by Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe.

The University also urges the media to verify facts before publication and to exercise caution in headlines to avoid creating unnecessary tension. Similarly, security agencies are called upon to remain neutral, vigilant, and unbiased, while the University pledges continued cooperation to ensure safety and order on campus.

The statement concludes with a call to the university community and all stakeholders to jointly uphold peace during this transition period, rejecting attempts to incite division or politicize the process.