Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro expels student over drug offences

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro in Ogun State, Mukail Akinde, has officially announced the expulsion of a female student, Susan Isoyo, following her arrest by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) ten months prior.

This declaration was made during a press briefing preceding the institution’s combined 2024 convocation ceremony on Tuesday.

Isoyo was apprehended by NDLEA operatives in April 2023 for purportedly engaging in the illicit drug trade, specifically for being found in possession of codeine-based cough syrup and 283 grams of cannabis.

After her release by NDLEA authorities, the polytechnic conducted an internal investigation, during which Isoyo was found guilty of the alleged offenses.
Consequently, she was expelled from the institution.

Addressing the media, Rector Akinde emphasized the institution’s commitment to upholding its reputation and maintaining discipline among its student body. He stated, “We detest any behavior that tarnishes our institution’s image.”

Akinde further explained the sequence of events, stating, “Upon the incident’s public exposure, we exercised caution and allowed external law enforcement agencies to complete their procedures before initiating our internal disciplinary measures.”

He also highlighted proactive steps taken by the polytechnic to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Akinde revealed that the institution has implemented routine drug testing for students, with a strict policy of immediate expulsion for those testing positive for hard drugs.

Additionally, he credited the institution’s partnership with local authorities, particularly the traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, for their collaborative efforts in combating social vices such as cultism on campus.