MIX REACTION OVER IMMORTALIZATION OF EKWUEME

The renaming of Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo, FUNAI, after a former Vice President, Late Dr. Alex Ekwueme has generated mixed reactions among residents of Ebonyi State.

Those who spoke with Radio Nigeria of described the renaming as a welcomed development considering the contribution of Dr. Ekwueme to the political development of the country.

Chief Press Secretary to the Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Emmanuel Uzor, commended the Federal Government for appreciating Governor David Umahi’s educational policies and rewarding same by renaming a Federal University after the former Vice President.

Another resident of the State, Mr. Moses Idika, described the pronouncement as well deserved pointing out that as an academic Institution, it had to be associated with persons of integrity.

However, the President Students’ Union Government of the University, Comrade David Okafor, expressed some reservations over the renaming of the Institution noting that many students were yet to come to terms with the choice of the University to immortalize Dr Ekweume.

When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Ikechukwu Elom, said the University Management was yet to receive a formal directive from the Federal Government pointing out that the University Community was apprehensive over the matter.

Mr. Elom described late Dr. Alex Ekwueme as not only a political icon but one the most patriotic Nigerians who deserve the best honours.

AMECHI ODO