Fresh allegations of sexual harassment, cult activities and other forms of misconduct have stirred concern at Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, with students claiming that disciplinary standards have weakened under the institution’s current leadership.
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‎Several female students, who spoke anonymously over fears of victimisation, alleged that some lecturers now demand sex or money in exchange for grades or protection from academic failure. They claimed that measures introduced during the tenure of former Rector Salisu Usman had curbed such practices, but alleged that those reforms have since been abandoned.
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‎According to the students, lecturers in the Public Administration and Graphics Design departments allegedly demanded between ₦70,000 and ₦80,000 from female students or threatened them with failure if they refused to comply with their demands.
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‎One student further alleged that a lecturer instructed a female student to reserve and pay for a hotel room ahead of a meeting. She claimed the student reported the incident to a management official but was allegedly intimidated instead of receiving protection or seeing disciplinary action taken.
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‎The students also alleged that the institution’s disciplinary system had become ineffective, creating an environment where unethical lecturers operate without fear while victims remain silent to avoid possible expulsion.
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‎Concerns were also raised over an alleged resurgence of cult-related activities. One student claimed that suspected cult members held a meeting near a female hostel between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. about two weeks ago, adding that although security personnel reportedly alerted management, no action was taken.
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‎In addition, the students expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as the return of banned handout sales, the decline in enforcement of dress codes and compulsory identity card policies, as well as a reported increase of more than 200 per cent in tuition fees, which they said has worsened financial hardship.
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‎They appealed to Governor Usman Ododo to intervene, alleging that indiscipline and poor administration were eroding the gains achieved under the previous management.
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‎Responding to the allegations, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, John Onimisi, said the management had already taken disciplinary action against some staff members.
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‎He confirmed that six lecturers were suspended on Wednesday over the unauthorised sale of handouts and textbooks, while another lecturer was suspended over allegations of sexual harassment.
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‎Onimisi added that the polytechnic’s disciplinary committee was investigating the allegations and promised that the outcome would be made public after the process was concluded. However, he did not comment on the claims regarding the alleged return of cult activities on campus.
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‎The development has prompted renewed calls from students and parents for a thorough investigation, stricter disciplinary measures and stronger safeguards to ensure a safe and secure learning environment.