By Elijah Ugani
The Cross River State Government has dismissed as false and politically motivated reports alleging plans to relocate the Okuku Campus of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) to Akamkpa.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey Adi Odey, described the rumour as “unfounded, mischievous and politically motivated,” saying it was intended to create unnecessary tension and mislead the public.
According to the Commissioner, the rumour has generated anxiety among students, parents, members of staff, and residents of Yala and surrounding communities, prompting numerous inquiries seeking clarification.
“There is no iota of truth in this rumour. It is a complete fabrication, conceived by political detractors to create confusion, sow discord, and distract the government from its commitment to educational development,” the statement said.
Rather than considering the relocation of the campus, the Commissioner noted that the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu has continued to invest in the development of the institution.
He disclosed that the Governor, working through the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Bassey, recently approved the renovation of facilities at the Okuku Campus as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and strengthen academic activities.
He stressed that the Okuku Campus remains an integral part of the University and reiterated the government’s commitment to its continued growth and development.
The Commissioner urged members of the public, particularly residents of Yala and other stakeholders, to disregard the rumour, assuring them that there are no plans by the state government to relocate the campus from its present location.