Speaking at the memorial service, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ernest B. Izevbigie said, “It is indeed a time of mourning for the Management, Staff and Students of Benson Idahosa University over the demise of Justin Ukwu, a 200L student of the Department of International Studies and Diplomacy (ISD). He said, investigations carried out by the University Management on the incidence shows that “Marina Medical Services Limited” failed by not providing adequate service in managing the health condition of Mr. Justine, adding that proper medical procedures were not carried out and this case will be dealt with seriously to avoid future occurrences.

Expressing the University’s grief over Justin’s death the Vice Chancellor said, Management is deeply angry and saddened by the incidence, noting that the memorial service which is tagged, “Justice 4 our Justin,” is Benson Idahosa University saying, ‘We are Justin’s family, We Care’. He also said that the University Management met with the family and offered prayers for them, while pledging the University’s support and assistance to the family.

Prof. Izevbigie therefore called for peace and shared grief. He also called on all to join in the crusade by sending condolence messages to the families and the University Community at this trying moment, rather than opting for violence and destructive criticism against the University whose track record has produced great leaders around the world.

Highpoint of the ceremony was the lowering of the University flag in honour of Mr. Justin. This was followed by a minute silent after which special prayers were offered for the family by the President of Benson Idahosa University, Bishop F.E. Benson Idahosa II who also represented the Chancellor and Archbishop of the Church of God Mission International Dr. Margaret Benson Idahosa as well as the Deputy Provost, Rev Charles Ofili who represented the All Nations for Christ Bible Institute International. Also featured were soul lifting renditions by the BIU Choir.

The University management has also put out a statement regarding the earlier reports on social media about an alleged “riot” on the campus of Benson Idahosa University have been largely exaggerated.

It reads:

“The report was neither verified with nor confirmed by the University before it was published. As a result, a majority of the unverified article was untrue and defamed the reputation of an institution that consistently works to create a better Nigeria. Benson Idahosa University has some of Nigeria’s best and brightest students who believe in and have exemplified a commitment to academic excellence with godliness, and our core values of integrity and accountability, and ownership mentality. The actions of the few in this case, do not reflect the attitude of the great Benson Idahosa University students.

“Our students continue to remain our highest priority and we hold their safety, health, and well being in the highest regard. To that end, after the unfortunate minor incident, the University within 12 hours provided an alternative temporary infirmary to care for the medical needs of students going forward. The main infirmary will be restored within 7 days.

Benson Idahosa University is committed to ensuring that our University maintains the highest standards in education and overall experience for all of our students. However, vandalization of University property by a few students endangers the safety of all and should be avoided at all times. We continually invite any aggrieved students to use the appropriate channels of the inaugurated “Student Management Interactive Forum” to direct their grievances, as we collectively work to protect and promote the safety and well being of all students and staff”.