By Victoria Okpanachi
Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Prof. Ogbo Usman, has credited the remarkable academic progress the school has attained to a firm zero tolerance policy on unethical and sharp practices over the past four years.
Prof Usman made this known on Tuesday in Lokoja, during a press briefing marking the end of his first tenure as rector of the institution
He highlighted the transformation the school has undergone under his leadership, while narrating that before his assumption in office, the school had a lot of challenges.
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Reflecting on the state of the institution before his appointment, he noted that academic integrity was severely compromised, with widespread extortion, compulsory purchase of textbooks, and other unethical practices affecting students and staff alike.
The rector stressed that his administration banned the sale of textbooks on campus, as some lecturers made their text materials a prerequisite to passing examinations.
He also narrated how some elements were falsifying and printing the school’s results in a nearby cyber cafe before our administration. His administration took swift action to put an end to such fraudulent activities.
Aside that, we have cracked down on cultism, examination misconduct and other vices to ensure a safe and orderly learning environment,” he added
According to him, steps were also taken to restore the integrity and prestige of diplomas and other certificates being awarded by the polytechnic.
He said a new statement of result templated with complex security features has been introduced.
Prof. Ogbo stated that when he assumed office, the polytechnic had no functional student hostels, as the existing structures were in a state of disrepair.
“Today, we have fully functional hostels alongside several other infrastructural developments, including new administrative buildings, classrooms, and a state-of-the-art auditorium to enhance quality learning,” he said.
He further highlighted other key projects, such as the fencing of the Itakpe campus and the significant upgrade of the school’s health center, which was previously a mere three-bed facility. These and several other initiatives, he noted, have greatly improved the institution’s learning environment and overall student welfare.
Beyond academic reforms, his leadership also tackled security concerns. He revealed that between May 2020 and January 2025 his administration successfully averted 170 security threats through an intelligent security network in the polytechnic.
He said hidden CCTV cameras were installed within and around strategic places to monitor unholy activities of secret cult members and other criminal elements.
The rector said the installation of CCTV cameras has also been extended to classrooms, lecture theatres and other areas in the campus .
Prof. Ogbo emphasised that these measures have significantly strengthened the institution’s reputation, fostering a culture of academic excellence and integrity.
