The protracted struggle of 128 medical graduates from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, finally yielded a triumphant outcome as Governor Monday Okpebholo successfully secured their long-awaited induction into the medical profession. These graduates, who had endured a decade-long journey through medical school, faced an agonizing delay since their graduation in August 2024. This delay stemmed from a complex web of unresolved issues plaguing the university’s medical program, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the futures of these aspiring doctors. Governor Okpebholo’s intervention brought a much-needed resolution, promising a new dawn for the affected graduates and restoring hope in the beleaguered medical school.
The governor’s decisive action followed a passionate protest by the medical students who took to the streets, blocking the Benin-Auchi Highway to amplify their voices and bring attention to their plight. Their spokesperson, Precious Omohegbele, poignantly articulated the frustration and despair felt by the graduates who had dedicated a decade of their lives to the pursuit of medical careers only to be denied the culmination of their arduous journey – induction into the medical profession. The protest served as a stark reminder of the consequences of institutional failures and the human cost of bureaucratic hurdles.
Responding swiftly to the students’ outcry, Governor Okpebholo initiated a series of engagements with all stakeholders involved in the impasse. He recognized the urgency of the situation and the need for a comprehensive solution that addressed the root causes of the delay. This included liaising with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), the regulatory body responsible for medical certifications, and navigating the intricate web of bureaucratic processes to pave the way for the graduates’ induction. The governor’s proactive approach signaled a commitment to resolving the crisis and restoring the integrity of AAU’s medical program.
The governor’s efforts bore fruit when the MDCN, after careful consideration and consultation with the Edo State government, scheduled the induction ceremony for February 13, 2025. This announcement brought immense relief and joy to the long-suffering graduates who could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. The State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Iyamu, played a crucial role in facilitating the resolution, meeting with the MDCN Registrar, Dr. Fatima Kyari, to finalize the arrangements and assure the students of the government’s unwavering support.
Beyond addressing the immediate concern of the delayed induction, Governor Okpebholo demonstrated a broader commitment to revitalizing education in Edo State. He reinstated the monthly subvention to Ambrose Alli University, a vital financial lifeline that had been withheld by the previous administration, crippling the institution’s ability to function effectively. This decision underscored the governor’s recognition of education as a cornerstone of societal development and his determination to invest in the future of the state’s youth.
Furthermore, Governor Okpebholo reversed the unjust dismissal of AAU staff who had been unlawfully disengaged by the previous administration for exercising their fundamental labor rights. This act of restorative justice not only addressed a historical wrong but also signaled a new era of respect for workers’ rights and a commitment to fostering a harmonious and productive work environment within the university. By prioritizing the welfare of both students and staff, Governor Okpebholo laid the foundation for a more stable and prosperous future for Ambrose Alli University and the wider educational landscape of Edo State. The successful resolution of the medical graduates’ induction crisis, coupled with the governor’s broader educational reforms, painted a picture of a renewed focus on investing in human capital and building a brighter future for the state.
