NAPS demands probe of certificate racketeering at Delta poly

The National President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has demanded the immediate probe of alleged certificate racketeering at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.

NAPS National President, Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, addressing reporters Thursday in Abuja, stressed the need to uncover all culprits involved in the alleged misdeed, regardless of their status in society.

NAPS also called for the immediate dissolution of the Governing Council of Delta State Polytechnic due to its alleged incompetence and failure to uphold the institution’s integrity since May 2024.

The student union condemned the appointment of individuals to the Governing Council of the institution who, through their poor leadership and mismanagement or tacit involvement, have allowed what it termed “fake news” to escalate unnecessarily.

They particularly rejected what they termed the “unjust suspension” of the institution’s Registrar without proper forensic investigation and due process, adding that the hasty suspension without due process remains suspicious.
Demanding a formal and public apology from Arise TV and Mr. Oseni Rufai within seven days for allegedly broadcasting misleading and unverified information on Delta State Polytechnic, NAPS called on the Alumni of the
Association to approach the court to protect the reputation of their certificates and alma mater.

NAPS noted that it was regrettable that Oseni Rufai, a supposedly seasoned professional, would broadcast such a damning report against Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, without conducting a proper verification process.

NAPS thereby threatened that failure to meet their demands within seven days would leave them with no choice other than to lead a nationwide action against Arise TV.

“NAPS will mobilize 0.05% of the 28.1 million Polytechnic students nationwide to occupy and shut down Arise TV offices across the country,” the student leader threatened.

“This directive is not negotiable, and we call on all Polytechnic students to be on high alert should Arise TV refuse to comply. The Polytechnic system will not tolerate irresponsible journalism that tarnishes our institutions without solid evidence.

“NAPS remains fully committed to protecting the dignity of Polytechnic education and ensuring that students are not subjected to defamation or misinformation. We urge the relevant authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Education, NBTE, and security agencies, to step in immediately and ensure the integrity, transparency, and credibility of the institution.”