MOUAU Vice Chancellor Condemns Student Riot and Property Destruction

The Vice Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, has spoken out against the recent unrest on campus. According to Prof. Iwe, what transpired was not a peaceful protest but outright rioting by students, resulting in significant damage to university assets.

In a media briefing following the incident, Prof. Iwe explained that while the university had made efforts to provide conducive facilities for students, miscreants took advantage of the situation to vandalize valuable university property. He expressed disappointment over the destruction of lecture theaters, library facilities, laboratories, and other infrastructure, attributing these actions to external instigators influencing students.

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Addressing media reports of a 60% hike in school charges, Prof. Iwe refuted the claims, stating that some students who had squandered their fees on non-educational activities were attempting to deflect blame for their financial mismanagement. He emphasized the importance of fee payment for academic engagement and condemned attempts to evade financial responsibilities.

Furthermore, Prof. Iwe highlighted ongoing challenges faced by the university, including the proliferation of fake certificates and academic fraud. He underscored the necessity of implementing biometric capture to address these issues and ensure the integrity of examinations and academic records.

Regarding the recent unrest, Prof. Iwe clarified that he was not physically assaulted by students, contrary to rumors, and assured that the university Senate would convene to address the situation and determine appropriate actions moving forward.

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The MOUAU Vice Chancellor urged against military intervention and emphasized the need for peaceful resolution through internal deliberations and engagement with relevant stakeholders.

The incident at MOUAU occurred following student protests over the implementation of a 'no pay, no examination' policy, prompting a swift response from university authorities and law enforcement agencies to restore order and assess the damage.