Celebration as normalcy returns to Ebonyi varsity hospital

It was a celebration at David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, as normalcy returned to the institution and the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Uzoma Agwu, resumed work.

The institution had been grappling with tensions involving the host community, which led to days of protests and counter-protests that threatened to disrupt its operations. However, it regained stability following the timely intervention of various stakeholders, including the State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

As the CMD, Prof. Uzoma Agwu, resumed her duties on Wednesday, she was greeted with a heroic welcome by the staff, who gathered at the entrance of the main hospital complex, chanting solidarity songs.

In her address, Professor Agwu expressed her gratitude to all staff, President Bola Tinubu, Governor Francis Nwifuru, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for their invaluable support and intervention.

She pledged that the institution is determined to make President Tinubu proud, recognising that healthcare is a key component of his Renewed Hope Agenda.

Professor Agwu also expressed her conviction that DUFUTH would become the leading healthcare facility in the country.

She acknowledged the pivotal role played by the hospital’s founder and Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, in resolving the recent unrest and guiding the hospital through complex challenges.

Despite accusations of absenteeism, she noted that the staff’s overwhelming presence demonstrated their commitment and dedication to their work.

To commemorate the hospital’s shared journey, particularly the events of the past weeks, Professor Agwu proposed establishing a pioneer record of photo collections featuring staff faces and names.

Prof. Agwu urged the staff to continue praying for her, seeking grace to lead with transparency and accountability.

Last week, the hospital staff staged a counter-protest, declaring their support for the Chief Medical Director and absolving her of all allegations levelled against her by the host community, led by the Chairman of the Traditional Council, HRH Eze Lazarus Umahi. This dramatic turn of events marked a significant turning point in the crisis.

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