The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo, has cautioned newly admitted students for the 2024/2025 academic session to steer clear of cultism and other social vices that could jeopardize their academic journey.
Speaking at the institution’s 32nd matriculation ceremony held over the weekend at the main campus in Lokoja, Professor Ogbo delivered a stern warning against involvement in criminal activities and misconduct on campus.
Addressing the matriculating students, numbering 3,708 for National Diploma and 2,841 for Higher National Diploma across eight schools and 57 programmes, Professor Ogbo highlighted the importance of discipline and adherence to institutional rules. He listed cultism, gun-running, examination malpractice, drug abuse, alcoholic addiction, cybercrime, indecent dressing, and vandalism as prohibited activities.
“My simple warning is for you to stay away from these vices to avoid running foul of the law. Any breach will attract appropriate penalties, including outright expulsion and prosecution. Ignorance of the law has no place in the Polytechnic and will not be condoned. Let me particularly emphasize cultism, which is completely forbidden on our campus. You are therefore warned to desist from any form of luring cult-related activities in the institution,” he stated.
Professor Ogbo further urged the students to be security-conscious and support the institution’s management by reporting any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. He also emphasized the importance of carrying identification cards at all times while on campus and encouraged the students to consult the Students’ Information Handbook for guidance on acceptable conduct.
While congratulating the new students, he revealed that the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) had fully accredited 27 programmes offered by the institution following a rigorous assessment conducted in December 2024.
Professor Ogbo praised former Governor Yahaya Bello for his contributions to the institution, attributing its stable and predictable academic calendar to the former governor’s foresight and leadership.
The ceremony concluded with the administration of the matriculation oath, officially welcoming the students into the institution.
One of the matriculating students, Yemisi Oyebamiji, a National Diploma 1 (ND1) Mass Communication student, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to study at the Polytechnic. “I thank the institution for giving me admission to study mass communication, and I assure you of good behavior throughout my studies,” she said.
