Federal Polytechnic, Ede expels 27 students following riot

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The Federal Polytechnic, Ede in Osun State has expelled 27 Higher National Diploma (HND) students following a riotous protest against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In addition, eight students have been suspended for two semesters, and two former Student Union leaders have been banned from the institution.

In a statement signed by the institution’s media director, Sola Lawal, the management confirmed the disciplinary actions taken.

Lawal explained that an investigation committee was formed to probe the students’ rampage on May 9, 2024, which resulted in vandalism and stoning at the senior staff club.

“The unprovoked attitude led to the vandalization of individual and institution’s properties. This unwarranted action negates the motto of the great citadel which the institution is known for after a painstaking and thorough investigation,” Lawal stated.

The committee’s findings led to the expulsion of 27 HND students, the suspension of eight HND II students for two academic sessions, and a ban on two former Student Union leaders from entering the campuses.

The incident reportedly stemmed from an EFCC raid on hostels in Owode Ede, Osun State, where over 70 suspected internet fraudsters were arrested.

Following the raid, students protested at the EFCC’s Zonal office in Ibadan, demanding action from the institution’s management to secure the release of the arrested students. The protest escalated into a riot on the school premises, causing significant property damage.