Tensions flared at Federal Polytechnic Offa on Monday as students stormed the campus to protest against what they describe as illegal admission practices that have rendered part-time students ineligible for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The demonstration, which began early Monday morning, saw thousands of students blocking the institution’s main gates, demanding immediate action from the school administration.
The controversy stems from the admission of part-time students who, according to the protesters, were promised eligibility for NYSC upon completion of their programs.
However, many students have discovered that their admission status disqualifies them from participating in the mandatory one-year service program, leaving them frustrated and angry.
“We were assured during our admission process that we would be eligible for NYSC like our full-time counterparts,” said one of the protest leaders, who preferred to remain anonymous.
“Now, we are being told that our admission is illegal, and we cannot serve our country. This is a betrayal of trust, and we will not stand for it.”
Chanting slogans and carrying placards with messages such as “No NYSC, No Peace!” and “We Demand Justice,” the students called on the school management to rectify the situation and ensure that all part-time students are granted NYSC eligibility.
In response to the protest, the school authorities issued a statement urging calm and assuring students that the matter is being investigated.
The statement also mentioned that the administration is in talks with relevant authorities, including the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), to find a resolution.
“We understand the concerns of our students and are committed to resolving this issue as swiftly as possible,” the statement read. “We urge all students to remain peaceful and refrain from any actions that may escalate the situation.”
Despite the assurances, the protesting students have vowed to continue their demonstrations until concrete steps are taken to address their grievances.