Bauchi terminates blind student’s ‘appointment’ for switching course

The Bauchi State Government has terminated the temporary appointment of a blind student for switching from Veterinary medicine of Mass Communication at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Muhammad Hussaini Yakubu.

Muhammad disclosed that his appointment was terminated in 2019 after he lost his sight in 2014 while studying Veterinary medicine at the same university.

According to Daily Trust, the student, an indigene of Toro LGA of the state, gained admission to study Veterinary Medicine in ABU Zaria, but developed retinal detachment when he was in 200 level, a development that forced him to leave the course for Mass Communication due to the practical involved.

It was gathered that the state government stopped paying him his monthly allowances after the incident.

The blind student, those studying pharmacy, medicine, veterinary medicine and other related courses were given temporary appointments, and after graduation, they would be given permanent and pensionable appointments but his hope was dashed by the sudden incident.

He said, “When Governor Bala Mohammed assumed office, there was a verification exercise and I appeared before the committee and told them my predicament but they did not understand with me.

“Despite all the explanations, the appointment letter was terminated since 2019.

“I was eventually asked to see the governor for complaint. The monthly allowance that the government used to pay me had been helping me to sponsor my education and I have made several efforts to see the governor or any government officers to intervene but to no avail, “Muhammad added.

Reacting, Dr Ibrahim Bello, the Director Veterinary Services, Bauchi State, said, “Yes, it is an appointment often given to the students who study Veterinary Medicine and other related courses.

“The appointment is usually retained upon graduation. So, it is a scheme and once you are out of it for whatever reason, your appointment is terminated.’’

The 400 level student appealed to the state governor to reconsider his appointment as he wasn’t the cause of his problem, adding that the allowance was the only means to help him continue his degree programme.