Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
DAVID Umahi, Minister of Works has denied the allegations of sponsoring a community protest against David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), in Uburu Ohoazara, Ebonyi state.
He spoke during a meeting with traditional rulers and members of the Community on Monday, Umahi emphasized that he did not direct anyone to protest.
“I didn’t direct for any protest. The President General asked me in Abakaliki, ‘Shall we do protest?’ and I said no, don’t..”
He urged community members to cease any form of petition writing against the institution, warning that such could play into the hands of those who wish to see the hospital fail.
Umahi further appeal that the hospital CMD, Professor Uzoma Agwu to serve out her tenure, emphasizing the importance of supporting the institution and allowing posterity to judge the leadership.
“Let’s hand over the Hospital to her, she is our daughter. And I’m sure you all heard me very well. If we have our children who are in that hospital and are writing a petition, it is against the hospital. Do not write a petition against anybody. You will be playing into the hands of our enemies. You will be playing into the hands of those who don’t want the hospital to thrive.”
The Minister highlighted the hospital’s achievements, particularly in providing critical care to cancer patients from across the region, not just Ohaozara.
He stressed that the hospital’s success is crucial and appealed for prayers to support its continued growth.
Umahi also announced that the state Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru, has agreed to intervene in the matter and bring resolution to all outstanding issues.
“The governor graciously has agreed to step in. So let’s allow the governor to find out what is happening and get the problem solved.”
Additionally, Engr. Umahi pledged to collaborate with the head of SMEDAN to empower local business owners in the community and promised scholarships for academic pursuits, to be rolled out in phases.
He urged Uburu Community to sustain the tempo of progress and ensure that a new generation of influential personalities emerges, both in politics and business to carry the torch to be left behind by the older generation.