By Ovie Okpare
The National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU) on Thursday appealed to the Federal Government to allow schools across the country to re-open for academic activities.
NADESSTU’s plea is coming at a time when COVID-19 cases in the country are on the increase.
President of NADESSTU, Comrade Godwin Saturday, stated this on behalf of students of Delta origin on Thursday in Asaba, the state capital.
Saturday contented that if churches, mosques, markets and other social events are allowed to opened, schools especially tertiary institutions should be reconsidered for reopening in the interest of security and educational development of the country.
While, regretting the huge setback the pandemic has done to the nation’s academic calendar, noted that many students were being reported to be turning into vices that portend great danger to the country’s security.
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He added that many students were becoming tired of staying at home as some of them have become burden on parents.
He however called for the fumigation of school premises, as well as putting other necessary precautions in place before the re-opening of schools in order to safeguard the health of teachers and students.
Flanked by some members of the students union leaders, Saturday commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the steps taken so far to manage the pandemic in the state.
“The associated wants to thank the governor once again on his prompt response in curbing the menace of the COVID-19, even in these hard times of global economic meltdown where the price of oil has drastically reduced, he still continued with his developmental strides in the state. We want to appreciate his intervention on this struggle to help ensure peace in the state,” he said.
The students’ leader also appreciated health workers, the police, journalists and government employees involved in the fight against the pandemic for their hard work and sacrifices.
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On the impasse between students and the state Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, Mr. Saturday said the vote of no confidence earlier passed on the commissioner has been lifted following the intervention of Governor Okowa through his aides on students’ affairs, Jerry Ehiwario, Francis Osedume and Ezekiel Okoh.
“All issues raised were critically reviewed by both parties and the commissioner acknowledged the merits in the demands, prayers and agitations of the students.
“With all issues reviewed and resolved, the association therefore lifts the no confidence vote, persona non grata and ultimatum on the Commissioner for Higher Educational as we forge a new front with the ministry.
“In view of the above, we are calling on all Delta State students and interested parties to shield their swords and cease fire while we consolidate on the resolutions of the meeting,” he said.
