Oron Nation Protests Prolonged Delay In Maritime University Takeoff, Accuses Federal Authorities Of Marginalisation

Idongesit Ashameri

The Oron Union has raised a fresh alarm over what it described as a “deliberate and systemic marginalization” of the Oro people, following the prolonged delay in the commencement of academic activities at the University of Maritime Studies, Oron (UMSO), despite the 2022 Act establishing the institution.

At a press conference in Oron at the weekend, the President-General of Oron Union, Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, warned that the continued neglect of the university project was provoking widespread frustration among the people. He said the Oro Nation could no longer tolerate the “injustice meted out by the Nigerian State” after exhausting all peaceful avenues to seek redress.

Bassey condemned attempts by some federal officials to repeal the Act establishing UMSO, describing the move as a direct threat to the development and future prospects of Oro youths.

He said the alleged partnership between a Lagos-based senator, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and those benefiting from the old status of the Maritime Academy amounted to “a serious provocation” capable of destabilizing the region.

He insisted that the continued operation of the former Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, was illegal, given that the 2022 Act had fully upgraded the institution to a university. He stressed that the certificates being issued since 2023 were questionable, noting the clarity of the law and the published gazette.

The Oron Union leader accused certain individuals within the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and NIMASA of deliberately frustrating the takeoff of UMSO.

He questioned why a valid federal law was being undermined, why such illegality was allowed to persist, and why an Acting Rector was being empowered when a Vice Chancellor was required.

He noted that between 2022 and 2025, ten federal universities had been established and had already commenced operations, while UMSO alone remained stagnant.

He added that Oro people deserved a sense of belonging in the federation and could not continue to watch perceived injustice in silence.

Bassey appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State to intervene immediately. He emphasized the urgent need for the appointment of a Vice Chancellor and principal officers for formal commencement of the university, describing it as the last peaceful opportunity.

He expressed confidence that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who played a significant role in expanding lands for the Academy to meet university requirements, would ensure adherence to due process.

The Oro Union also urged the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to escalate efforts at the national level, emphasizing the centrality of UMSO as the only federal institution in Oro Nation and the need for strong advocacy to fulfill the aspirations of the people.

The Oron Union also drew attention to what it described as a conspiracy among staff at the defunct Maritime Academy and elements within NIMASA who allegedly fear losing their positions once the university structure becomes operational. According to Bassey, their resistance was self-serving and detrimental to national development.

In a passionate appeal, the Union urged the President to appoint a Governing Council for the university and ensure enforcement of the UMSO law without further delay, stressing the need for prompt action to ensure Oro people take their rightful place in national development.

The press conference further addressed concerns about infrastructure, especially Section V of the East-West Road, which Oro leaders said has bypassed coastal communities. They called for the revival of the original route to ensure inclusivity and enhance connectivity vital to the prosperity of both Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.

On state creation, the Oron Union reaffirmed its unwavering demand for Obolo State, maintaining that the minority ethnic group must not be forced into artificial unity. It described the demand as legitimate, constitutional, and consistent with the aspirations of the people.

The Union cautioned that the patience and peaceful disposition of Oro people should not be mistaken for weakness. It reiterated that the University of Maritime Studies, Oron, is a legal reality and stated that its non-implementation undermines national credibility. The Union urged Nigerians of goodwill to support the call for justice, equity, and adherence to the rule of law.