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By Abubakar Umar
Academic staff of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, have appealed to the Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to reconsider and lift the suspension placed on the Rector of the institution.
In a jointly signed appeal made available to journalists in Ilorin, the academics described the Governor as a courageous and fair-minded leader whose administration has demonstrated strong commitment to educational development and good governance in the state.
According to the staff, it is this “widely acknowledged sense of justice and fatherly concern for institutions under his care” that informed their decision to formally approach the Governor with what they described as a heartfelt plea.
They noted that prior to his suspension, the Rector provided purposeful leadership that ensured academic stability, institutional discipline, improved staff morale, and notable infrastructural development within the Polytechnic.
The staff stated that his leadership style fostered peace and cooperation between management and staff, thereby creating a conducive atmosphere for effective teaching and learning.
The appeal further raised concerns that a prolonged suspension could negatively affect critical academic and administrative activities of the institution, including long-term planning, policy continuity, and ongoing projects such as the perimeter fencing of the Polytechnic.
“As an academic institution, leadership stability is central to maintaining standards, protecting the institution’s reputation, and safeguarding the future of our students,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to uphold accountability and due process, the academics appealed for a balanced approach that combines justice with mercy and fairness in the overall interest of the institution.
They suggested that allowing the Rector to resume office while any necessary reviews or remedial processes continue through appropriate channels would restore confidence, calm anxieties, and strengthen institutional harmony.
The staff added that lifting the suspension would be viewed as an act of magnanimity and a reaffirmation of the Governor’s commitment to fairness, equity, and educational excellence, noting that such a decision would inspire renewed loyalty, dedication, and commitment among staff and students.
The appeal was e-signed by Ashaolu O. Raphael, on behalf of the Academic Staff of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, who assured the Governor of their continued support for his policies and vision for the state.
