Gov. Emmanuel rescues A’Ibom Students trapped in renewed Jos Crisis

By Uwakmfon Dan, Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, has rescued indigenes of the State studying at the University of Jos, (UNIJOS), following renewed violence in Jos, Plateau State Capital which has led to death of two Students of the Institution.

According to reports, the violence erupted across Tina, Angwa-Rukuba, British-America, Rikos, Bauchi road, Farigada, Dogon-Dutse and other parts of Jos North Local Government Area, following a disagreement between the Christian and Muslim communities.

Eyewitnesses reported that gunshots were heard between Lamingo Junction and Angwan-Rukuba area near the University of Jos Staff Quarters at noon on over the weekend and later, students’ hostels.

In a swift reaction to save Akwa Ibom Students studying in the Institution, Governor Emmanuel directed the immediate rescue of the students which was effected through the Commissioner for Education and the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Matters.

Receiving the Students on behalf of the Governor at the Akwa Ibom Transport Company (AKTC) Park, Thursday, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Victor Inoka, expressed joy over their safe return and reiterated the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of all Akwa Ibom students studying in various institutions within and outside the Country.

“You know welfare is a component of two poles. People always talk about material welfare, but don’t talk about immaterial welfare. What the Governor has been doing to ensure the students’ welfare is unprecedented, you cannot quantify what His Excellency has done.

“Imagine what students from other States are passing through, but within a very short notice, they State Government acted promptly. We were made to understand that you were held up in your hostels, and you could not go out, we also heard that four of you are at the Police Station while some have sort for safety in some other places, so we immediately mobilised for you to return.

“You can see the swift response from the Governor. The welfare of the students is always paramount. I’m so happy that you’re back and alive. We will take care of your welfare and ensure those remaining return safely too.

He assured that the Governor will not relent efforts in improving the education sector in the State and called on the students to shun vises that may ruin their future.

While calling on the students to remain hardworking, Prof Inoka called on the students to support the second term bid of Governor Udom Emmanuel, saying when reelected, the State Chief Executive will do more for the State.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Matters, Comrade Aquilla Otobong Akpan, lauded Governor Udom Emmanuel for being sensitive to the affairs and welfare of Akwa Ibom Students and congratulated of students on the safe return.

She also lauded Professor Victor Inoka for being active and passionate in the rescue of the students and reechoed the resolve of the students to work for the Governor’s reelection.

Speaking on behalf of the students, a final year Law Student of the Institution and President, National Association of Akwa Ibom State Students, UNIJOS Chapter, Comrade Joseph Ating thanked the State Government for not toiling with the lives of her citizenry.

Ating who was full of praises to God for their safety, also thanked Prof. Victor Inoka and Comrade Otobong Akpan for facilitating their return and made a case for the return of their colleagues stranded in Jos.