Kogi State Polytechnic has suspended seven lecturers over allegations of sex-for-grades, extortion and the unauthorised sale of handouts, as the institution begins disciplinary proceedings into the reported misconduct.
The institution’s spokesperson, John Onimisi, confirmed the development, stating that six lecturers were suspended over the alleged illegal sale of handouts and textbooks, while another was suspended over an allegation of sexual harassment involving a female student.
According to him, the management has also commenced disciplinary action against other lecturers accused of breaching the institution’s regulations.
“The disciplinary committee of the Polytechnic is already investigating the allegations and the outcome will be made available to journalists,” Onimisi said.
Students Allege Sex-for-Grades and Extortion
Some students, who spoke anonymously, accused certain lecturers of demanding money or sexual favours in exchange for passing grades or protection from academic failure.
They alleged that two lecturers in the Public Administration and Graphics Design departments demanded between ₦70,000 and ₦80,000 from students, allegedly threatening to fail anyone who refused to comply.
One student claimed the problem had previously been brought under control but had resurfaced.
“Sadly, these things were tamed under the former management. But with the current ‘I-don’t-care’ attitude, the old traits are coming back,” the student said.
Another student alleged that a lecturer asked a female student to book and pay for a hotel room before meeting him.
The student reportedly rejected the request and reported the matter to the institution’s management.
“The disciplinary structure has collapsed. Corrupt lecturers are getting emboldened while female students are suffering in silence for fear of rustication,” another student alleged.
Students also expressed concern over the alleged return of compulsory handout sales, saying the development has created anxiety across the campus.
However, the polytechnic insisted that disciplinary measures are already underway and assured that anyone found guilty would face appropriate sanctions.
Source: NAN.
