Ogoni youths in Rivers State have threatened to stage protests over the non-funding of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Saakpenwa, Tai Local Government Area.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Chinedu Mmom, had earlier expressed concern that since FUET was established following a bill signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on February 2, 2025, the institution had not received any take-off allocation or grant.
Speaking on Sunday, the President of the Ogoni Youths Development Initiative (OYDI), Imeabe Saviour, issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to release funds for the university or face the shutdown of its offices in Port Harcourt and Abuja.
Saviour said the youths had previously written to the NNPCL Group Chief Executive and the Office of the National Security Adviser to highlight the plight of the institution.
He said the lack of funding had stalled construction projects, left contractors unpaid, and prevented the development of hostels, classrooms, and laboratories necessary for students and staff.
“We wish to convey our deepest sadness over the refusal of the NNPCL to fund the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoniland,” Saviour said.
READ ALSO: Ogoni Groups Urge Tinubu to Reverse HYPREP Board Appointment
“Many students are currently without hostels, classroom blocks, and laboratories for their studies. Everything about project execution is now at a stalemate in the school.”
He added that FUET’s situation contrasts with other institutions established at the same time, which had received funding.
“We are being forced to view this as deceit or a deliberate action by the NNPCL to breach the terms of the agreement with the Ogoni people,” he said.
The OYDI president warned that unless funding is released within seven days, members would occupy the NNPCL offices, emphasizing that the planned protests would be non-violent but firm.
The group called on the NNPCL to honour the directive of President Tinubu and ensure the smooth take-off and development of FUET, describing the university as a vital part of the Ogoni people’s legacy and the fruits of the labours of their slain heroes.