The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest Zone has praised the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, for upholding justice and reinstating the expelled and suspended students of the institution.
It will be recalled that the polytechnic had suspended and expelled some students over various allegations.
In a release signed on Friday by the Southwest Coordinator, John Alao, Zonal Secretary General, Sanni Sulaimon Olamide, and Zonal Public Relations Officer, Peter Bamigboye, the student body stated that this achievement followed fruitful engagements with the school’s leadership.
They thanked the Rector, Governing Council Committee, and the management of Federal Polytechnic Ede for their wisdom, patience, and dedication to justice, as well as the media for their coverage, which helped bring national attention to the issue and catalysed the resolution process.
The student leaders said: “The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest is pleased to inform the entire student populace and stakeholders that normalcy has been restored at the Federal Polytechnic Ede following a series of press conferences, media engagements, and strategic interventions aimed at addressing the concerns surrounding the expulsion and suspension of certain students, which had previously caused significant unrest within the institution.
“We are delighted to announce that, after numerous dialogues and advocacy campaigns, a peaceful resolution has been achieved. The management of Federal Polytechnic Ede, under the leadership of its Rector, Engr. Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, and the Governing Council Committee chaired by Prof. Taiwo Akanbi Olaiya, has displayed exemplary leadership and a genuine commitment to upholding justice while maintaining the institution’s integrity.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire management team for their willingness to listen to the voices of the students and for revisiting the disciplinary actions taken against the affected students.
“We recognize that the challenges faced by both the management and the students have not been easy, but the willingness to find common ground has been commendable.”
NANS leaders also commended the Governing Council Committee’s decision to review and amend the judgement on the expelled and suspended students, stating: “As a result of their thoughtful consideration, the expelled students have been given a one-semester suspension, commencing from the last academic semester, and are expected to resume in the next academic session.
“This decision reflects a balance between discipline and second chances, providing these students an opportunity to continue their academic pursuits after a period of reflection.
“We are pleased to report that the students who were placed on suspension are to resume with immediate effect. However, in line with the institution’s principles of discipline and personal development, each of these students is required to submit a letter of good conduct to the school’s management.
“This is a positive step toward rebuilding trust and fostering a harmonious relationship between the institution and the students.
“Moreover, the Student Union Government (SUG), which was also suspended in the wake of these incidents, has been reinstated. We believe that the return of the SUG will further contribute to the stability and unity of the student body, as the union plays a crucial role in ensuring that the collective interests of students are well represented.
“We extend our profound gratitude to the student body for their patience and trust in the process, and we are committed to continuing our advocacy on behalf of all Nigerian students across the Southwest.
“The lessons learned from this episode serve as a reminder that peaceful dialogue and engagement are powerful tools in resolving conflicts.
“NANS Southwest remains dedicated to ensuring that the welfare and rights of students are upheld, and we will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders to foster a conducive learning environment across all tertiary institutions within our region.”
The leaders urged the reinstated students to embrace the opportunity with a renewed sense of responsibility and commitment to upholding the values of discipline and academic excellence, adding that students are encouraged to continue working in unity with the management, knowing that such collaborations foster lasting peace and progress.
