The National Executive Committee of the Federal Government College Okigwe Old Students Association (FEGOCOOKOSA) has alerted on the plight of the students of its alma matter who were rendered homeless by the burning of a section of their male hostel in Okigwe, Imo State.
The Association following an on the spot assessment visit by the NEC of the Alumni on Friday, March 8, 2013 urged the Federal Ministry of Education or its relevant agencies to initiate remedial measures to minimise the hardship on the affected students in the light of impending rainy season.
A statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of FEGOCOOKOSA, Mazi Paul Ibe in Abuja weekend disclosed that over 100 students were affected in the inferno, which cause is yet-to-be determined.
The statement noted that the facility tour was led by the National President of FEGOCOOKOSA, Engr. Okey Chikwendu.
According to the statement, Principal of FGC Okigwe, Mrs Rose Nwachukwu and her two Vice Principals, House Master and three other teachers were on hand to receive the FEGOCOOKOSA team that also included Chairman of Owerri branch, Chief Leo Njoku.
The school officials informed the visiting group that the fire out break occurred on March 1st, 2013, at about 9.30am while the students were attending classes in the morning.
According to the statement a complete half wing of Charity House ( male hostel) was burnt down but was contained from affecting the second wing with the assistance of the Okigwe Fire Service. The entire roof, it’s roof carcass, ceiling, mattresses, students lockers and all their properties were completely burnt to ashes.
The affected 112 students are now forced to squat with other students in different hostels.
The Principal informed the alumni that the students have started their mock exams and so were not allowed to go back home to replenish their lost provisions and properties.
