By Abdallah el-Kurebe, Editor
The Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) has mourned its Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Senator Joseph Waku, who died at the National Hospital, Sunday.
A statement by the Deputy Director, Corporate Communications of the University, Adegbenro Adebanjo issued Monday, quoted the Vice Chancellor (VC), Prof. Joseph Fuwape describing the incident as a sad occurrence, “especially at a time when the Pro Chancellor had settled into his role of steering the ship of the University to greater heights.”
The VC said Waku became the Pro-Chancellor at a very challenging time, “through deft managerial skills ensured the stability of the institution and resolution of a lingering crisis.”
He described him as a patriot who contributed significantly to national development at various levels and during his stint as a member of the Nigerian Senate between 1999 and 2003.
“Our University will miss his leadership, wise counsel, camaraderie and peace building efforts. On behalf of Council, Senate, Staff and students of FUTA, I express our heartfelt condolence to the family and the people of Benue State over this irreparable loss. May the Good Lord grant his family, FUTA, and his friends and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. And may the good Lord grant him eternal repose,” Prof. Fuwape said.
Senator Joseph Waku was appointed the Pro Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of FUTA by the Federal Government on May 9 , 2017 and served in that capacity until his death on Sunday , February 3, 2019.
