… Urges staff, students to be vigilant, report suspicious moves

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji (FEDPOLEL), Ondo State, Dr. Ademola Iyanda Ebeloku, has expressed concerns over the escalating wave of kidnappings and violent crimes sweeping across Nigeria.

According to the rector, the security crisis in the country is currently being felt by every citizen, demanding collective action from all institutions of learning.

Ebeloku stated this in a statement he signed personally to welcome students and members of staff after the Eid-ul-Adha break.

The Rector, who maintained that the growing fear of banditry and kidnappings has permeated communities across the country, described the incessant reports of abductions and loss of lives as a source of deep grief for families and a threat to the nation’s social fabric.

While insisting that the Polytechnic must stand firmly for peace, using its collective voice, prayers, and the influence of educated citizens to condemn violence in all its forms, Ebeloku urged staff and students to promote unity among Nigerians regardless of tribal or religious affiliations, stressing that insecurity does not discriminate.

The Rector appealed to the polytechnic community to remain vigilant at all times, report suspicious activities through appropriate channels, and ensure that safety is a collective responsibility.

He further encouraged continued prayers for the country’s leadership, security agencies, and divine intervention to restore peace to the country.

“As we return to work, we cannot ignore the pains in our land. The incessant reports of kidnapping, violence, and loss of lives across Nigeria have touched us all. It grieves the heart to see families broken and communities living in fear.

“I urge us all to pause and remember those affected by these acts of insecurity. As an institution built on knowledge and character, we must stand for peace. Let us use our voices, our prayers, and our influence as educated citizens to condemn every form of violence and to promote unity among all Nigerians, regardless of tribe or religion.

“I encourage all staff and students to remain vigilant, to report suspicious activities through the appropriate channels, and to support one another. Safety is a collective responsibility. We must also continue to pray for our leaders, security agencies, and for God’s intervention over our nation.

“I sincerely thank our Security Unit, Works and Services Department, and all staff who were on duty during the break. Your commitment ensured our campus remained peaceful. We will continue to strengthen security measures within and around the Polytechnic to protect our students and staff.

“As we begin this new month, let us return with renewed purpose. June is a critical month for academic activities, accreditation preparations, and service delivery.

“I charge every staff member to let diligence, integrity, and teamwork define our work. To our students: Let this be the month you focus on your studies, discipline, and representing FEDPOLEL with pride. A peaceful mind is essential for learning, so let us all be ambassadors of peace.

“Management remains committed to staff welfare, infrastructural development, and student safety. We will keep engaging relevant agencies to improve security around the institution and to ensure our learning environment remains safe and conducive,” Ebeloku stated.