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Otobi-Akpa killings: Federal varsity Otukpo decries attacks on host community
The Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), has decried the recent brutal killings in Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
Otobi Akpa, which hosts the university’s permanent site, recently came under relentless assault by suspected herdsmen.
In a demonstration of solidarity, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of FUHSO, Professor Stephen Abah, led a high-powered university delegation to the palace of the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty John Elaigwu, and to the grieving community’s village square, where he met with the District Head, Chief Pastor Wilson Ahola.
Abah described the massacre as “a heinous act of barbarity and man’s inhumanity to man.”
He expressed profound sorrow over the incident, which coincides with FUHSO’s planned relocation to its permanent site in Akwete-Akpa a moment of institutional progress now overshadowed by grief and loss.
“What could possibly justify the slaughter of innocent, peace-loving people in their own homes?” he asked solemnly.
“This community, which plays host not only to our University but also to the Federal Government College and the Otobi Dam, deserves protection, not persecution. The horror visited upon Otobi Akpa is beyond comprehension.”
The vice-chancellor called on security agencies to act swiftly in identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators.
He also appealed to the Nigerian Police Force to establish a permanent police station within the Otobi Akpa axis, to secure this critical federal zone and help prevent future attacks.
During the visit to the Och’Idoma’s palace, Abah conveyed FUHSO’s deepest condolences to the paramount ruler of the Idoma Kingdom.
In response, the visibly emotional monarch revealed that one of the victims was his personal pastor. He called on all Idoma sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, to speak with one voice in demanding justice.
“This is not just about Otobi Akpa,” the monarch said.
“This is about the soul of our people, our heritage and our future. We must speak with one voice and demand justice for our slain.”
The monarch emphasized Otobi Akpa’s strategic significance not only as Otukpo’s primary water source but also as the proud host of Nigeria’s first Federal University of Health Sciences noting the urgent need for a lasting security framework in the region.
The FUHSO delegation included senior members of University management: Acting Registrar Mr. Michael Ogiji; University Librarian Dr. Kathryn Philip; Provost of the College of Medicine Professor Rose Okwunu Abah; Director of Academic Planning and Control Professor Edache Sylvanus Okpe; Director of the Institute of Global Health and Health Security Professor Onyemocho Audu; Chief Security Officer Mr. Michael Anebi; and Head of Protocol Mr. Francis Onmoke.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security, saying he feels perfectly safe during his visit to the country. His remarks come amid ongoing reports of insecurity in various parts of Nigeria, making his statement a notable endorsement of the nation’s stability in certain regions.
Johnson made the declaration on Thursday, December 4, 2025, while addressing participants at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, the state capital. He acknowledged having read travel advisories and news reports highlighting security concerns prior to his trip but said his experience has been reassuring.
He said he feels perfectly safe in the country and emphasized that the summit environment and local hospitality contributed to his sense of security. He also asked the audience if they felt safe, receiving an enthusiastic affirmation.
During his visit, Johnson commended Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Imo State Government for their development initiatives, particularly efforts to provide 24-hour electricity. He highlighted the potential of Nigeria as a hub for innovation and economic growth, noting the opportunities presented by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
While his statements have been welcomed by some as a boost to international confidence in Nigeria, analysts caution that the former prime minister’s experience reflects only a controlled and secure environment within Imo State. Several parts of the country continue to face challenges, including banditry, communal conflicts, and kidnappings.
Nonetheless, Johnson’s visit and remarks are significant, sending a positive message to investors and global observers about Nigeria’s potential for stability and progress. They also underscore the contrast between localized experiences of safety and broader security challenges across the country.
By Emmanuel Iheaka, OWERRI
The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has assured Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State that his group will be one of the biggest investors in the state.
Dangote gave the assurance at the opening session of the Imo Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri on Thursday.
The renowned Africa’s industrialist urged Uzodimma to indicate his preferred area of investment and forget the rest.
Dangote described the Imo governor as a personal friend of decades and commended him for providing enabling environment for investment.
“We will be one of your biggest investors in Imo. So, please tell me the area to invest and we will invest”, Dangote declared.
He called on entrepreneurs to always invest at home, adding that foreigners cannot drive the economy of any nation more than the nationals.
“What attracts foreign investors is a domestic investor. Africa has about 30 percent of the world’s minerals. We are blessed,” he submitted.
Dangote reiterated that his refinery was set to launch 1.4 million barrels per day capacity, the highest for any single refinery in the world.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday declined to accept Prince Emmanuel Kanu’s appearance on behalf of his brother, Nnamdi Kanu, ruling that he is not a legal practitioner.
Boris Johnson Says He Feels “Perfectly Safe” in Nigeria, Praises Imo State’s Progress
Dangote to Uzodimma: Just show me where to invest
Judge rejects Nnamdi Kanu’s brother court appearance
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