…says armed men didn’t blow up oil facility
 
By Dayo Johnson

AKURE— GOVERNOR Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State yesterday reacted to the suspension of the licence granted to the State University of Science and Technology, OSUTECH, in Okitipupa by the Nigerian University Commission, NUC, saying that it would ensure its reversal and the institution would soon commence operation.

 This was coming as the government denied reports that armed men blew up oil facility belonging to Chevron Nigeria Limited CNL, at Ewan, Ilaje Council area of the state.

The state government speaking through the Information Commissioner, Ranti Akerele said reports from the oil company, security agencies and the community indicated that the report was “a hoax and calculated to paint a picture of insecurity and lawlessness in the state.”

Meanwhile, the NUC had wielded the big stick by announcing the suspension of the licence granted the institution over two years ago because it failed to admit students.

But, the state governor in a swift reaction to the decision of the commission said he would do everything possible to ensure a reversal of the suspension, adding that government is committed to the operation of the University.

Akerele assured the people of the areas and all stakeholders that “no stone would be left unturned in getting the suspension reversed saying “we also assure that the university will outlive and outlast this phase and produce future leaders of our society in all endeavours of life.”

The Commissioner said the suspension “will not fundamentally affect the fortunes of the institution.

Akerele pointed out that the state government received the announcement with shock because the state had budgeted N2 billion in this year’s budget which was only signed into law in February by the governor.