A coalition of students of tertiary institutions in Edo State has apologized to the Governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole, over the razing of a luxury bus belonging to the state government by some students of the University of Benin.
The UNIBEN students were purportedly protesting the repossession of some quarters belonging to the government from the university authorities after a High Court ruled in favour of the state government.
Drawn from all tertiary institutions in the state, including the Tayo Akpata University of Education, Ekiadolor, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, College of Education, Igueben, College of Agriculture Iguoriakhi and Michael Imoudu College of Physical Education, Afuze the over 200 students said the action of some students of the University of Benin was politically motivated and would not be condoned.
Addressing the governor, President, Student Union Government, Tayo Akpata University of Education, formerly known as College of Education, Ekiadolor, Amenaghawon Emmanuel said: “We are here to show our strong solidarity to you and your entire cabinet because we know, overtime, there are bound to be detractors and opposition but regardless of all these, we want to let you know that those who are with you are more than those who are against you.
“Specifically, I will want to talk about the script that was acted out a few days ago on television. It is glaring to all that those behind the script are agents of darkness that are against the state. It may please you to know sir that students are presently not in session. The question then is, those that barricaded the highway where did they come from? Are they actually students? Why did they not burn the Comrade bus gift to their own institution? That display actually negates the wish of the generality of students in Edo State.
“So sir, on behalf of the entire students as well as the management of tertiary institutions in Edo State, we want to tender an unreserved apology on behalf of Edolites. We also want to use this opportunity to let you know that we are grateful for the cordial relationships existing between the students in Edo state and the state government.”
The students also presented an award of excellence to the governor for his “development strides not only in rebuilding the then College of Education but extending your development efforts to all Institutions in the state irrespective of ownership.”
Others, who spoke were the President, National Association of Edo Students, Gideon Aidonijie and Agbonlahor Agape, President, Student Union Government, College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi among others.
In his remarks, Oshiomhole thanked the students for the honour bestowed on him.
He said: “As governor, I need the courage to make decisions without minding whose ox is gored because what has led to impunity across the country is that government is unable to find the courage to apply rules clearly without looking at faces.
“I made up my mind from a very early age to my fighting my battles as you are fighting your battles, that I shall commit myself to standing on the side of truth and God will give me courage to do what I am convinced about. That has guided my actions since I assumed office as governor of Edo State.”
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