Offa Poly alumni group seeks inclusive framework for leadership selection 

A faction of the Federal Polytechnic Offa Alumni Association, Justice Forum, has raised concerns over the association’s constitutional amendment process and plans to conduct another election at its forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), calling for a more inclusive and credible framework for leadership selection.

The group, in a statement signed by its Co-Convener, Olabode Owoeye and made available in Ado-Ekiti said it withdrew its court case to give peace a chance and honour the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, who had promised to facilitate a resolution acceptable to all parties.

Justice Forum, however, clarified that its withdrawal of the case should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the processes that led to the current executive leadership or the subsequent constitutional amendments.

The group expressed concern that some provisions of the amended constitution could disadvantage qualified alumni residing outside Offa, particularly in their aspiration to become president of the association. 

It also called for clearer eligibility criteria that would promote competence, integrity, proven service and commitment to the development of the institution.

According to the statement, the amendment presented an opportunity to strengthen the association’s institutional framework and establish a constitution that would accommodate the interests of members across different locations and professional backgrounds.

It added that the process should have been thorough, transparent and inclusive, noting that the association’s membership included accomplished individuals in academia, public service, corporate leadership and private enterprise.

Justice Forum further stated that its proposed constitutional clauses were not adopted, expressing concern that the outcome of the amendment might not have addressed the shortcomings it was intended to resolve.

While reaffirming its commitment to peaceful engagement, the group said it was no longer interested in pursuing litigation for the purpose of correcting the issues raised, but maintained that its decision to withdraw the case did not amount to accepting or legitimising the disputed processes.

The group urged the association’s leadership to prioritise institutional development, fairness and unity, stressing that the long-term credibility of the alumni body would depend on the inclusiveness of its governance structures and the integrity of its leadership selection process.