The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) wishes to formally inform the general public, the student community, and relevant stakeholders of a significant resolution achieved following our engagement with the management of Auchi Polytechnic regarding students affected by disciplinary actions arising from the protest of May 2025.
The said protest, which unfortunately led to the destruction of school properties valued at millions of naira, resulted in the rustication and expulsion of thirty-two (32) students. It is important to state that, upon further review, some of the affected students were found culpable of gross misconduct, in clear violation of the institution’s rules, regulations, and the Student Handbook.
In response to passionate appeals from the affected students and their parents, NAPS, in keeping with its responsibility as a voice for polytechnic students nationwide, issued a formal correspondence dated 23rd March 2026. In that letter, we unequivocally condemned the actions of the students in the strongest terms, while also appealing to the management for leniency and a second chance for the affected individuals.
Following our intervention, we received an invitation from the institution, indicating that the Governing Council had given due consideration to our appeal.
Consequently, a NAPS delegation, led by Comr. Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, GCNPS, President, NAPS, paid a courtesy visit to the management as a mark of appreciation. The delegation was also accompanied by Comr. Yakubu Peter Odion, Executive Chairman, NANS JCC Edo State Axis, a proud student of the institution, whose contributions were instrumental in facilitating dialogue and seeking an amicable resolution for the affected students. Other stakeholders present included Comr. Lucky Habeeb and Comr. Muhammed Abdulazeez Sarkis, alongside the Acting President of the Student Union Government and his executives.
During the meeting, the Rector, Dr. Salisu Shehu Umar, who is also the Chairman, Committee of Federal Polytechnic Rectors, expressed deep displeasure over the misconduct of the students but noted that, after careful deliberation, the management chose to adopt a parental perspective in addressing the matter.
The resolutions reached are as follows:
i. Students who were rusticated have been fully exonerated.
ii. Students who were expelled have had their punishment reduced to rustication and are to resume in the next academic session.
iii. Affected students will be required to pay for damages caused during the protest.
iv. Students who missed their examinations are to join evening students to write their papers.
NAPS commends the management of Auchi Polytechnic for their understanding, magnanimity, and willingness to listen to the voice of reason. This decision reflects not only administrative wisdom but also a genuine commitment to student welfare and rehabilitation.
We use this medium to strongly advise students across all polytechnics, monotechnics, and colleges of technology to desist from acts that violate institutional regulations and disrupt academic harmony. While advocacy remains a legitimate tool for engagement, it must be exercised responsibly and within the bounds of law and order.
Students are reminded that their primary purpose in school is academic pursuit and personal development. We therefore urge all students to collaborate with institutional managements to sustain peaceful, progressive, and conducive learning environments.
NAPS remains committed to constructive engagement, responsible leadership, and the protection of students’ interests through dialogue, not disorder.
