With deep concern and a strong sense of responsibility, attention is hereby drawn to a series of troubling developments that have continued to erode the welfare, dignity, and collective confidence of students and graduates of the Federal Polytechnic Offa.
In recent times, the Alumni Association, an organization traditionally entrusted with safeguarding the interests of both past and future graduates has taken actions that sharply contradict this mandate. Most alarming is its collaboration with the institution’s management to approve a sudden increase in certificate collection fees from ₦10,000 to ₦15,000, alongside a drastic rise in certificate folder fees from ₦1,500 to ₦5,000. These increments were implemented without meaningful consultation or consideration for the economic realities faced by many graduates, a significant number of whom are still navigating unemployment and financial instability.
Equally disturbing is the reported statement attributed to the National President of the Alumni Association, asserting that current students union government have no standing to speak on behalf of graduates because they are “no longer active students.” Such a position reflects a troubling disregard for the principles of solidarity, continuity, and shared legacy that alumni bodies are meant to embody. If students cannot advocate for those who came before them, one must ask: who then protects the future members of the Alumni?
This action is not isolated. The management has made fee increment a culture, even after the Students’ Union Government, through diplomatic engagement and constructive dialogue, successfully reduced the proposed 45% increment in school fees to 20%. Instead of appreciating the economic challenges of Nigerian students, management has further increased the burden:
At the Academic Board Meeting last week, the 2025 Convocation Ceremony, already scheduled for February, was arbitrarily removed without a single explanation to the students, even though all graduating students paid convocation fees as part of their clearance requirements.
In another show of disregard, it was also approved at the same meeting that all Heads of Departments (HODs) should increase departmental dues from ₦2,000 to ₦3,000, again, without proper consultation with the students who are directly affected.
Hostel fees have been raised from ₦70,000 to ₦90,000 and from ₦80,000 to ₦100,000, despite the fact that the hostel conditions remain inhumane, prison-like, and far below acceptable living standards.
These acts of financial oppression, lack of transparency, and policy imposition have no place in a modern academic institution that claims to support innovation, inclusion, and academic freedom.
We salute the courage, resilience, and tireless effort of the Students’ Union Government, who despite intimidation and overwhelming pressure, have continued to stand firm in defending the rights and interests of Fedpoffites. The Union remains committed to resisting exploitative policies, fighting for equity, and holding every responsible body accountable.
Enough is enough. Students are not cash cows. The dignity of our graduates must be preserved, and the integrity of our institution protected. Let justice and fairness reign.
AbdulRasheed Wahab Opeyemi writes from Accountancy Department, The Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State.