Education

BUTH Hunts for Children of Abandoned Patient

Published

2 years ago

April 16, 2024

ADMIN

By Cynthia Abah

The management of Babcock University Teaching Hospital (BUTH) has launched a search effort for the children of one of its patients, Mr. Maurice Okpenyong, 81, who was reportedly abandoned at the hospital. According to a statement from Babcock University’s Communications Department, Mr. Okpenyong was brought to the hospital by his children, a man named Lawrence and a woman, who have since disappeared and failed to accompany him home when BUTH signed his discharge in December 2023.

Despite efforts to locate the patient’s son and daughter, their whereabouts remain unknown to BUTH management. Collaborating with the police in Ilishan, Area F, and Bariga, the hospital has searched for his son at both his official and private addresses without success. The outstanding total debt accrued by the patient at the time of his discharge in December 2023 was N399,320. However, due to his children’s failure to retrieve him and his prolonged stay, his bill has escalated to N1,279,350 as of March 20, 2024, with only N180,000 paid by either the patient or his children.

The decision to publicize the situation was made by the hospital management to prompt the patient’s family to collect him, as BUTH can no longer ensure his well-being. Additionally, despite the hospital’s continued provision of care, Mr. Okpenyong has displayed rebellious and abusive behavior. The administration cited instances where he removed his pee bag, causing unsanitary conditions. Due to concerns that he may attempt to flee, the hospital has placed him under watch.

Mr. Okpenyong, hailing from Akwa Ibom’s Obot Akara Local Government Area, had been diagnosed with Repeat Suprapublic Cystostomy. The hospital’s efforts to locate his children and address his care needs reflect their commitment to patient welfare amidst challenging circumstances.

Education

UMYU Unions Begin Two-Week Warning Strike

Published

1 day ago

November 5, 2025

By Omoniyi David

Academic and non-academic activities have been paralysed at Umaru Musa Yar’adua University (UMYU), Katsina, as four campus unions embarked on a two-week warning strike effective November 3.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the ASUU-UMYU Chairman, Dr. Murtala Abdullahi, the unions, ASUU, SSANU, NAAT, and NASU said the action followed the state government’s failure to honour agreements reached since 2020.

Dr. Abdullahi noted that despite repeated appeals and a recent three-week grace period, the government had failed to address issues concerning staff welfare, job security, and the university’s autonomy.

“The government’s continued inaction shows a lack of seriousness in addressing our members’ plight,” he said, adding that the strike became necessary after exhausting all avenues of dialogue.

The unions appealed to students, parents, and the public for understanding, stressing that their action aimed to safeguard quality education and staff welfare.

They warned that if the government fails to act within the two-week window, the unions would decide on further steps.

Education

Falaki Inducted into EKSU Alumni Hall of Fame

Published

3 days ago

November 4, 2025

By Samson Adeyanju

The Ekiti State University (EKSU), Alumni Association has honoured Mr. Akinsanmi Falaki, a distinguished banker and business leader, with induction into its prestigious Hall of Fame.

Falaki, who holds degrees in Business Management and Human Resource Management, was recognized for his outstanding achievements in the financial sector and exemplary leadership.

The seasoned banker began his career as an intern at EIB International Bank in 2003 and has since held senior positions in Skye Bank, Union Bank, and Keystone Bank, where he rose to Assistant General Manager.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Alumni Association President described him as “a beacon of excellence and integrity” and a true ambassador of the University’s values.

In his remarks, Falaki dedicated the honour to all EKSU graduates “making a difference across sectors,” pledging continued support for initiatives that advance his alma mater’s growth and reputation.

Education

JAMB Flags 2,658 Illegal Admissions in 17 Institutions

Published

5 days ago

November 1, 2025

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has uncovered 2,658 illegal admissions conducted by 17 universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education during the 2024/2025 academic session.

Leading the list is Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University with 1,847 cases, followed by Osun State University (492) and Abubakar Tafari Ali Polytechnic (148).

Others include the Federal College of Animal and Health Production (66) and the University of Calabar (28).

JAMB said any admission processed outside its Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), is illegal, warning institutions and candidates against bypassing the system.

Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa has also cautioned that schools found guilty of admission racketeering will face sanctions, including withdrawal of licences and disciplinary actions against erring officials.

Introduced in 2017, CAPS ensures transparency and merit-based admission.

JAMB further warned that students who accept offers outside CAPS risk being disqualified from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), programme.