Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru, has cautioned the 204 overseas scholarship students of the state who departed for the United Kingdom not to toe the part of Simon Ekpa whom he said the state sent to Finland to study but now working against the state.
Governor Nwifuru gave the warning during the official flag-off of the state scholarship scheme held at the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, Ezza South local government area.
Governor Nwifuru advised the students to abstain from any act that could bring disrepute and embarrassment to their families, the state and the federal government.
“I leave you with this, never forget where you came from. I will want you to allow the aspiration of our people to inspire you and let the challenges as a state follow your determination to succeed. While there, do not forget that we are counting on you to return to our state as our great leaders.
“The achievements we expect from you are very heavy. The innovations we are expecting are also very heavy; don’t care to think of disappointing us. We will never take it and we must compel you to deliver. We are not also going to leave you like others.
“Remember our brother that is causing crisis, that is asking people to kill people in this state, Simon Ekpa. Remember he was sent to Finland to study on scholarship, don’t toe his part. If you do that, we will regret sending you.
“Your returning home will justify the huge amount our state is committing to ensure that you attain this height. For the overall benefit of our people, do not be swayed by the euphoria of luxury overseas.”
He said that the state was sending 204 students. The total number ought to be 212 but three are heavily pregnant; three were disqualified on health grounds while two are already in the UK awaiting the arrival of others.
“This is a project that many people believed was practically impossible but for me, I believe that empowering human beings is more expensive than building infrastructure; it is also more productive than putting in place physical infrastructure.
“So, a huge amount totalling about N15 billion is worth spending to empower our people. We paid you a living allowance amounting to almost N1 million per month. So, face your studies, remain focused and become great ambassadors of the state,” he said.
During the flag-off, the governor also commended the chairman of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, for airlifting the students to the United Kingdom adding that his support made the journey a huge success.
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