By Opeyemi Adelakun
The management of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has stepped up its internal disciplinary campaign by suspending seven lecturers over separate allegations of misconduct, as it broadens investigations into claims of sex-for-marks, cultism and other activities considered detrimental to the institution’s academic environment.
The latest action, announced on Sunday, signals the institution’s resolve to confront allegations of unethical conduct that have generated growing concern among students and stakeholders.
According to the Polytechnic’s Public Relations Officer, John Onimisi, six lecturers were suspended over the alleged unauthorised sale of handouts and textbooks, while another academic staff member was relieved of duties pending investigation into an allegation of sexual harassment.
The suspensions, he explained, are part of ongoing disciplinary procedures aimed at restoring professionalism and enforcing institutional regulations.
The decision comes amid allegations from within the institution that some lecturers have been exploiting students through demands for money or sexual favours in exchange for academic grades, while concerns have also resurfaced over the alleged return of cult-related activities on campus.
Some sources within the institution claimed that disciplinary standards had weakened in recent months, creating room for misconduct among both staff and students.
They also alleged that female students who reported cases of sexual harassment received inadequate institutional protection and, in some instances, were subjected to intimidation.
Additional concerns raised included the alleged return of compulsory handout sales, reduced enforcement of the institution’s dress code and student identity card regulations, developments critics say have contributed to declining discipline within the Polytechnic.
Responding to the allegations, Onimisi said the institution had already referred the matters to its disciplinary committee for a comprehensive investigation.
He assured that the management would not shield anyone found culpable and pledged that appropriate sanctions would follow the committee’s recommendations.
“The school management is aware of the allegations, and the disciplinary committee of the Polytechnic is already investigating them. The outcome will be made available to journalists in due course,” he said.
He maintained that the Polytechnic remained committed to protecting students, upholding ethical standards and ensuring that due process guides every disciplinary action taken by the institution.
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