By Nurat Uthman
The management of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has denied media reports claiming that students of the institution have been dying from unknown illnesses in recent weeks.
In a statement released by the university’s Director of Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ezeanioma, it was stated that these reports were false and intended to tarnish the university’s reputation.
Ezeanioma clarified that the six student deaths that occurred in the past few months were unrelated cases, with only one happening within the university premises.
He also emphasized that no student has died in the university’s medical center since the current vice chancellor, Prof. Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, took office a year ago. According to Ezeanioma, the administration has made improvements to the medical facility’s infrastructure.
The university’s management expressed their disappointment with the misleading reports and urged for fair investigation before any calls for the university to be shut down. They also highlighted the development of the medical center under the current administration, including an expanded team and improved healthcare services.
“Though it is regrettable that ESUT lost six students to the cold hands of death in different circumstances and locations outside the University environment, including road accidents and suspected generator gas emission, within the last few months, it is mischievous to label death caused by these accidents or caused by terminal sickness as mysterious.
“It is also instructive to note that apart from one of the six students, the rest were off-campus residents.
“ESUT Management remains thankful to the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Barr. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his proactive and timely intervention in the matter.
“Recall that on Friday, 25th August 2023, a strong delegation from the Governor led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Chidiebere Onyia, in company of the Commissioner for Health, Associate Professor Ikechukwu Obi and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr Patrick Ochi, visited the University on a fact finding mission.
“It is heartwarming to note that after interactions and discussions with the University stakeholders, Management, staff and students and inspecting the Medical Centre facilities and personnel, the SSG had, while assuring Government’s thorough investigation, cautioned against the spread of unfounded rumours due to the negative toll they may have on the society.
“Prof. Chidiebere reiterated State Government’s deep interest in education and youth development stressing that achievement of government development goals depended strongly on the educated youths who are the future leaders.
“He affirmed strong commitment of His Excellency, Barr. Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah and his determination in guaranteeing safety of lives and properties of residence of Enugu State.
He also reiterated the commitment of the Government in transforming the University into a foremost citadel of learning and innovation hub of the Country.
“The general public and our dear students are therefore assured of ESUT Management’s strong commitment to the welfare and concerns of staff and students of our University.”
