By Bayero Ade
An incident at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO), Owo, Ondo State, last Friday caused widespread tension when a female student reportedly collapsed in the examination hall after an alleged altercation with an invigilator.
The student, identified as Badmus Balikis from the Department of Mass Communication, was said to have been rushed to the institution’s health center after she fainted. Reports suggest that Balikis, who recently gave birth, collapsed following a push from the lecturer while he was organizing students in the exam hall.
An anonymous source claimed, “The lecturer was trying to arrange the students before the exam when he forcefully pushed some of them. Balikis was among those affected and collapsed. We later learned that she had given birth less than a month ago. She was initially treated at the school clinic and later referred to another hospital.”
The incident reportedly escalated, with the lecturer allegedly being assaulted during the commotion.
In a circular addressed to the Polytechnic community, the school management confirmed the situation and announced ongoing investigations. The circular, signed by Gbenga Ademiluyi, Administrative Assistant to the Rector, stated: “The unfortunate event of Friday, December 6, 2024, involving a student who reportedly sustained injuries and a lecturer who was assaulted, is being thoroughly reviewed. Management has taken responsibility for the student’s medical care, while administrative measures are underway to address the incident.”
The statement further cautioned students against misconduct, noting that disrespect or aggression toward staff members would be met with strict penalties. It added, “Students are reminded to follow the proper procedures to address grievances. Acts of self-help or unruly behavior will not be tolerated and will attract severe consequences.”
To maintain order during the ongoing exams, the management announced increased security measures across the campus, particularly for invigilators and staff.
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