The Enugu State Government has instructed a comprehensive investigation into the reported sudden deaths of students at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Agbani.
The government has emphasized its commitment to providing a safe and improved learning environment at the institution.
During a visit to ESUT, the Governor delegated the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, to express the government’s genuine concern for the welfare of students. He stated that the investigation would go beyond the preliminary report of the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, who had been directed to investigate the institution and its medical facility.
“The Governor has directed us to conduct a preliminary fact-finding mission concerning the reports we have seen on social media and have been directly communicated to us by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). As a government, we want to gather information from students and the public,” said the SSG.
“The Governor is determined to ensure that this university reflects the standards of a world-class institution and that the health and security of students are treated as sacred. If there are any gaps identified, we will work with the Vice Chancellor, the Commissioner for Health, and the Commissioner for Education to come up with recommendations to address them.”
The SSG added, “The intention behind the social media posts may have been to mislead the public. However, the state government remains committed to the safety of students’ lives and providing them with a conducive learning environment.”
Addressing the situation, the Commissioner for Health, Prof Emmanuel Obi, condemned the rumors of student deaths on the university campus as unverified reports on social media. He stressed the importance of avoiding fake news and urged the public to refrain from claiming expertise in areas they lack knowledge.
The Vice Chancellor of ESUT, Prof. Aloysius Okolie, attributed the fake news to the outcome of the recent election of the ESUT chapter of NANS, stating that some disgruntled students resorted to spreading false news and blackmail against the institution.
Prof. Okolie acknowledged the loss of lives, both students and non-students, outside the school environment due to accidents and terminal illnesses. He clarified that the university had been taking measures to improve medical facilities and support the well-being of students.
Dr. Njideka Kenneth-Njoku, the Director of Medical Services, corroborated the Vice Chancellor’s statement, asserting that no deaths had occurred on the school premises during her tenure.
The Students Union Government (SUG) President, Comrade Donatus Okoye, condemned the false rumors and praised the university management for their proactive response. The SUG expressed gratitude to the Governor for the unscheduled visit, assuring continued support for creating a healthier and more conducive learning environment.
Earlier, NANS had called for the shutdown of the institution due to alleged mysterious deaths.