Students of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) in Anyigba, Kogi State, have vehemently responded to the recent comments made by Senator Dino Melaye, the governorship candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who described their esteemed institution as a “glorified secondary school.”
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Melaye made this derogatory remark, which sparked outrage among the student body.
In a press conference held in Anyigba on Thursday, Comrade David Monday, the President of the Student Union Government (SUG), expressed his deep disappointment at Melaye’s comments and called for political figures to refrain from involving students in their political campaigns.
Addressing the general public, Monday urged them to disregard Melaye’s disparaging characterization of the university, as it could not only undermine the achievements of the institution but also cast doubt on the capabilities of its graduates.
Furthermore, Monday highlighted the potential psychological and social consequences that could arise for the university’s unemployed graduates, who are already facing fierce competition in the job market.
He eloquently stated, “A state university that has consistently produced competent graduates who are successfully contributing to the global workforce, alongside those who are currently pursuing postgraduate programs both in Nigeria and abroad, should never be dismissed as a mere secondary school. Such a description undermines the tremendous progress we have achieved in research and community service.”
Monday proudly emphasized that PAAU is one of the 26 universities in Nigeria that has been granted full accreditation, boasting a faculty of over 150 esteemed scholars of professional caliber. The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern library, well-equipped laboratories, and spacious lecture theatres.
As a beacon of academic excellence, PAAU stands tall, and the derogatory label imposed upon it by Melaye is unwarranted and baseless.
It is crucial that we recognize and appreciate the institutional achievements and contributions of PAAU and its graduates, and refrain from engaging in unsubstantiated rhetoric that only serves to undermine their hard work and dedication.
Let us stand united in support of the Prince Abubakar Audu University and celebrate its legacy as a leading institution of higher learning.
