0
0
By Abubakar Umar
Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has been temporarily closed following a clash between students and security operatives over a three-week academic break approved for the ongoing National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation exercise.
The Polytechnic Management explained that the break, which took effect from Monday, January 19, 2026, was approved to ensure the smooth conduct of the NYSC programme, as the Kwara State Government had designated the institution as a temporary orientation camp due to prevailing security concerns in the state.
According to the Management, previous NYSC orientation exercises were held during students’ holidays or periods of partial academic activity.
However, the current exercise coincided with full academic resumption, a situation that reportedly triggered discontent among students who had only recently returned from the Christmas and New Year break.
The Acting Registrar of the Polytechnic, Mr. AbdulHafis Amin, said the situation deteriorated at the institution’s main gate, necessitating police intervention.
“The tension escalated at the Polytechnic’s main gate, requiring police intervention.
Unfortunately, some officers exceeded their mandate by deploying tear gas into the campus, which affected both students and staff. Our Chief Security Officer was among those injured,” Amin stated.
Following the incident, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, ordered the immediate closure of the institution to safeguard lives and property.
The Management has appealed to students, staff and other stakeholders to remain calm and cooperate with authorities, assuring that consultations are ongoing to resolve the matter.
“Our priority is the safety of the Polytechnic community. We are committed to engaging all relevant parties to ensure a swift and peaceful resolution of the situation,” the Acting Registrar added.
