The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has strongly condemned what it described as unverified report by a national Television station on the alleged result and certificate racketeering at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, NAPS National President,
Comrade Eshiifune Paul Oghayan faulted the presenter and demanded that the channel call him to order for penchant for ambitious and misleading narratives.
The report, which was aired by Rufai Oseni, has been deemed misleading, hurtful and lacking in proper investigative rigour befitting of the status of Arise TV.
According to NAPS, “a fact-finding delegation was dispatched to the institution to verify the claims, and upon examination of the institution’s official database, it was confirmed that the certificate in question does not correspond with any legitimate record of the polytechnic.
“We are therefore constrained to question Rufai Oseni’s credentials and professional competence as he is fond of coming on air without researching thoroughly on the issues he features.
“To say we are disappointed in Arise TV is an understatement. It’s inability to uphold journalistic principles is as appalling as the continued retention of his services is repugnant.
“There’s no gainsaying, that reports such as this can significantly damage the reputation of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, which is known nationwide for academic integrity and high standards.
“We, therefore, demand an immediate forensic investigation into the allegations, the dissolution of the Governing Council, a formal apology from Arise TV and Oseni, and immediate legal action by the Delta State Polytechnic Alumni Association.
“The hasty sacking of the institutions Registrar is equally condemned as it is the silence of the Governor Council and the Alumni of this great institution. We are particularly disappointed in the Council and the alumni for their inactions on this very grave matter”, the release stated.
NAPS concluded by issuing an ultimatum to Arise TV as well as a demand for the dissolution of the Governing Council to pave for a more proactive Council that will protect the interest of the institution.
“Let it be on record that, failure to meet our demands within the stipulated time will lead to nationwide action by NAPS, including the occupation and complete shutdown of Arise TV offices across the country.
“Our action is justifiable and a pragmatic attempt to restore the glory of Delta State Polytechnic, the State Government and the entire Polytechnic system in Nigeria”, the release concluded.