Stop cultism, rape, others, Wike tells varsity VC

The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has called on the management of the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education to stamp out cultism and all forms of sexual harassment, including rape, in the institution.

Wike made the call during the 38th convocation of the university.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Ipalibo Banigo, said the state government would ensure that all tertiary institutions received adequate personnel and were provided with a fair share of resources and development projects.

He said these would enable them to deliver world-class education and training, and undertake socially impactful research that addressed the policy and economic priorities of the state and nation.

“It (IAUE) is a specialised university for the training of teachers and school administrators and there is no reason compelling enough for us to change that. Education remains one of the top priorities of our government and we will not relent in our efforts to ensure that every child gets equal access and opportunity to get the quality education they need up to the tertiary level to progress productively, irrespective of their background,” Wike said.

While commending the management of the school for its efforts in maintaining discipline and high ethical standards in the university, the governor urged them to do more.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof Ozo-Mekuri Ndimele, said the convocation was implemented in batches parents, guardians, friends and well-wishers in attendance, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the small size of the auditorium.

Ndimele said a total of 3,747 persons graduated, adding that 78 of them had first-class degrees.