The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has condemned Arise TV’s unverified report on the alleged result and certificate racketeering at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.
The report, which Rufai Oseni aired, has been deemed misleading, hurtful, and lacking proper investigative rigour, befitting Arise TV’s status.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja yesterday, NAPS national president, Comrade Eshiifune Paul Oghayan, faulted the presenter and demanded that the channel call him to order for his penchant for ambitious and misleading narratives.
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 thoroughly researching the issues he features.
“To say we are disappointed in Arise TV is an understatement. Its 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 institution’s registrar is equally condemned as it is the silence of the Governing Council and the alumni of this great institution. We are particularly disappointed in the Council and the alumni for their inactions on this grave matter”, the association stated.
NAPS concluded by issuing an ultimatum to Arise TV and demanding the dissolution of the Governing Council to pave the way for a more proactive Council to protect the institution’s interests,” he said.
