Amgbare Ekaunkumo Yenagoa
Federal University Otuoke (FUO), under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Teddy Charles Adias, has donated advanced security equipment worth millions of naira to the Otuoke Vigilante Group during a ceremony at Otuoke Town Hall.
Represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) Professor Ibebietei Temple Offor, the Vice Chancellor emphasized FUO’s commitment to strengthening community safety as a cornerstone of its corporate social responsibility.
The donation reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to foster peace and security in its host community, ensuring a safe environment for both residents and the institution.
The donated items included 30 machetes, 30 pairs of boots, 30 flashlights, 30 metal detectors, 30 raincoats, 30 walkie-talkies, and 30 batteries, designed to enhance the vigilante group’s operational capacity.
Professor Offor underscored the importance of equipping the vigilante group to protect lives, property, and the environment, urging them to deploy the equipment effectively.
He also highlighted FUO’s broader mission to contribute to peacebuilding and promote harmonious coexistence, noting that such initiatives strengthen the bond between the university and the Otuoke community.
Chief Mekunumunu Digha, representing the Paramount Ruler of Otuoke, His Royal Highness Paul Ariwareni Engoye, Oke XI, expressed deep appreciation for FUO’s gesture.
He reaffirmed the vigilante group’s commitment to collaborating with the university’s security team to maintain peace and tranquility in Otuoke.
Chief Digha praised FUO’s Chief Security Officer, Barr. (Mrs.) Biobaragha Makaleboh Rosalyn, for her prompt responses to community distress calls, describing her as a vital link between the university and the community.
He called on FUO to sustain and expand its support to address ongoing security needs.
Barr. Rosalyn, in her remarks, explained that the donation was a direct response to the community’s request to bolster the vigilante group’s capabilities.
She emphasized that security is a collective responsibility, stating, “Protecting our community is a task for all of us, and FUO is proud to play its part.”
She also commended the Otuoke community for their peaceful disposition and unwavering support since the university’s establishment, which has created a conducive environment for academic and community activities.
The ceremony was attended by a range of dignitaries, including FUO Registrar Mrs. Andabi Benita Amange Edomo, Murphy Enyidah from the PRO Unit, and prominent community leaders such as Chief Matthew Ebuya, Chief Ayibakuro Digha, and Elder Loveday Gilbert Livingstone.
The event also saw the presence of other notable figures, including Chief Godgift Otuma, Chief Robert Idumange, and Hon. Commander Lemmy Ateki, reflecting the strong partnership between FUO and Otuoke’s leadership.
