Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Minister fo Works, David Umahi, and Governor Francis Nwifuru have wades into the face-off between Uburu Community in Ohaozara Local Government Area and David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH).
To this end, thecommunity has ordered residents of the area to end protests and petitions against the management of the hospital.
There have been protests against the management of the health institution since last week which has caused tension and affected medical and other human activities in the hospital.
The traditional leadership of the community ordered the protesters to end all forms of protest and petitions against the hospital and embrace peace.
But following the the intervention of Governor Francis Nwifuru and Minister of Works, David Umahi, at the weekend, the community issued an order to end the protests.
The community stated this in a statement signed by its President General, Odi Nicholas Enyi, on behalf of its traditional leadership.
They said: “The Uburu Traditional Leadership and esteemed stakeholders of Uburu, following careful consideration of the recent appeals made by Engr. David Umahi, Minister of Works and Founder of David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital (DUFUTH), and recognizing the intervention of Governor Francis Nwifuru, hereby issue the following statement:
“We acknowledge and appreciate the concerns raised regarding the ongoing situation at DUFUTH and the importance of fostering a harmonious environment for the hospital’s continued growth and success.
“We understand the necessity for peace and collaboration to effectively address any grievances and ensure the optimal functioning of this vital institution, which serves not only our community but the wider region.
“In alignment with the appeals made by Engr. David Umahi, we urge all members of Uburu community, and indeed all stakeholders, to cease any form of protest or petition writing against the current leadership of DUFUTH, led by the CMD, Professor Uzoma Agwu.
“We recognize the importance of allowing the CMD to fulfill her tenure and allow for the judgment of her leadership to be based on the hospital’s progress and achievements.
“We reiterate our commitment to supporting the growth and development of DUFUTH, so that the hospital can continue to providing critical healthcare, particularly to cancer patients across the region. We acknowledge the significant contributions the hospital can make and recognize the importance of an atmosphere of peace.
“Furthermore, we welcome the intervention of His Excellency, Governor Francis Nwifuru, and express our confidence in his ability to bring about a resolution to any outstanding issues. We pledge our full cooperation and support in his efforts to ensure the continued success of DUFUTH.
“The Uburu Traditional Leadership calls upon all members of our community to embrace peace and collaboration, allowing for a conducive environment for the hospital to flourish. We encourage everyone to join in prayers for the continued growth and success of DUFUTH.
“We are dedicated to working constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that DUFUTH fulfills its mandate and serves as a beacon of hope and healing for all,” they said.