The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has ordered an immediate ban on the use of cooking stoves, kerosene, and open flames in hostels at Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, citing safety concerns.
During an unscheduled visit to the university on Sunday, Otti expressed concern over the deplorable state of facilities and vowed to restore and upgrade the institution’s infrastructure.
“I don’t want to see stoves, kettles, or kerosene in hostels. I am giving the Vice Chancellor three months to build a functional cafeteria,” he said.
The governor directed the university management to begin phased renovations of existing hostels to make them habitable while new ones are under construction.
He also issued a three-month ultimatum for the Vice Chancellor to build a new cafeteria for students.
The governor announced plans to construct a 5,000-capacity hostel within four months and confirmed that the faculties of law and agriculture would be relocated back to Uturu to unify all students on one campus.
He explained that essential amenities like electricity, potable water, and other basic infrastructure would be prioritised to improve learning conditions.
Otti’s visit was met with cheers from students, who welcomed his commitment to addressing the university’s challenges.
The governor apologised for neglect of the university by previous administrations and reassured the university community of his administration’s dedication to improving their living and learning conditions.
