Abia state university relocates law faculty to main campus in June

DDM News

The Faculty of Law at Abia State University (ABSU) will relocate from Umuahia to the main campus in Uturu by June 2025.

Governor Alex Otti initially directed the relocation in November 2024, sparking concerns among Law students and their parents.

Students and parents worried that the immediate relocation would disrupt academic activities and create logistical challenges.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), On Monday, Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu announced the relocation timeline after an executive council meeting chaired by Governor Otti.

He confirmed that the movement of Law students and lecturers would officially commence in June 2025.

Kanu explained that the relocation, originally planned for 2024, was delayed due to logistics, accreditation issues, and students’ examinations.

He stated that the government considered complaints from Law students and citizens before deciding to implement the relocation systematically.

The commissioner assured that necessary procedures and upgraded infrastructure would be in place before moving the Faculty of Law.

Background of the ABSU Law Faculty Relocation

Abia State University was originally established as Imo State University in 1981, with its main campus in Uturu.

After the creation of Abia State in 1991, the institution was renamed Abia State University (ABSU).

The government relocated some faculties to Umuahia to establish an urban academic presence for the university.

The Faculty of Law was among those transferred to Umuahia, where it has operated separately for several decades.

Successive administrations have debated the need to return the Law faculty to the main campus in Uturu.

Supporters of the move argue that having the faculty in Umuahia creates administrative and logistical difficulties.

They believe relocating Law students to Uturu will enhance coordination and access to university-wide resources.

Opponents, including students and parents, worry about accommodation, infrastructure, and the financial burden of relocation.

Governor Otti’s administration finalized the decision to return the Faculty of Law to Uturu in 2024.

The government cited the need for academic integration and better utilization of university facilities as key reasons.

Authorities assured that infrastructure improvements were underway at the main campus to support the relocation.

Government’s Commitment to a Smooth Transition

Kanu emphasized that the government would ensure minimal disruption to Law students during the transition process.

He stated that measures were in place to upgrade classrooms, hostels, and other essential facilities at the Uturu campus.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to providing a conducive learning environment for all students.

Beyond the relocation, the government has introduced policies to improve the broader education sector in Abia State.

Kanu announced that primary and junior secondary school pupils were now exempt from all types of fees.

The policy eliminates payments such as PTA levies, sports fees, and other unofficial charges.

He explained that school administrators now receive monthly imprest to discourage unauthorized financial demands from pupils and parents.

Governor Otti’s administration aims to make education more accessible by eliminating hidden costs in public schools.

Reactions from Law Students

Some Law students have expressed mixed reactions regarding the planned relocation to the Uturu campus.

A section of students welcomed the move, believing it would better integrate them into the university’s academic system.

Others remain concerned about accommodation shortages and the university’s readiness to handle the increased student population.

A final-year Law student voiced concerns about adjusting to a new environment so close to graduation.

He stated that many students had settled in Umuahia and would face challenges relocating at this stage.

Despite concerns, university management has reassured students that the relocation will be phased to minimize hardship.

The state government remains confident that all Law students and lecturers will fully transition to Uturu by June 2025.

Conclusion

The relocation of the Law faculty marks a significant shift in Abia State University’s academic structure.

The move aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance academic coherence and streamline university operations.

Authorities believe relocating the Faculty of Law will improve educational standards and student access to facilities.

By June 2025, Law students will be part of the fully integrated academic community at the Uturu campus.

The government remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition and addressing students’ concerns.

Improved infrastructure and strategic planning are expected to make the relocation beneficial for the Law faculty.

With this move, Abia State University aims to strengthen its academic environment and support student success.

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