By Brave Dickson
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Stephen Okodudu on Thursday inaugurated two committees to resolve grievances among members of the university community.
The administration of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Ndowa S Lale was riddled with crises ranging from students and lecturers intimidation.
Lale was accused of running the affairs of the university like a military barracks, prompting lengthy legal tussles.
The two committees are Resolution of Subsisting Legal Issues between the University and other Parties headed by Professor Anele Ihekwaba, and a committee on Staff and Students’ Grievances headed by Professor Kanu Nkangineme.
The inauguration took place at the Governing Council Chamber, University Park.
The committees are mandated to submit their reports after one month with effect from the date of their inauguration.
Earlier, the Acting Vice-Chancellor had said that the numerous court cases and disaffection among staff and students had continued to widen the gap of commonality in the academic environment which must be bridged without further delay.
He said: “I enjoin the respective committees not to use this opportunity to open new contentious issues or engage in blame games.
“For me, who is right or wrong is immaterial at this time. What is right is what matters now and make sure you do justice to all.”
The Acting VC also urged all stakeholders to eschew divisive tendencies and work together to return the university to the path of inclusiveness.
On their part, both committees chairmen promised to carry out the task given to them to the best of their abilities.
