The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has advised former presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, to review a recent statement regarding the Student Union Government (SUG) election held at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
At a press conference in Abuja, CPTA’s executive director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., said the organisation had concerns about the accuracy of the claim by Obi’s official social media handle, which referenced an incident during the election on July 5.
According to Ogheneyero, the statement did not align with official information provided by the institution.
He referenced a report from the school’s director of public relations, Mrs Angela Egele, which indicated that the election was declared inconclusive due to procedural issues but was conducted peacefully under the supervision of security personnel and independent observers.
“There were no confirmed reports of fatalities or serious injuries during the exercise,” Ogheneyero stated. “We believe that all public comments on such matters should be based on verified facts.”
The CPTA emphasised the importance of responsible communication from public figures, especially when addressing issues involving students and educational institutions.
The group called for greater care in sharing information to prevent public misunderstanding.
Ogheneyero also commended the leadership of the polytechnic’s rector, Dr Salisu Shehu Umar, noting various development projects undertaken since his appointment in February 2022.
These include road construction within the campus, new academic blocks, completing a 250-seat lecture theatre for the School of Engineering, and modernising the central library and ICT centre.
“Dr Umar’s administration has shown commitment to institutional progress and student welfare,” he said.
The CPTA concluded by reaffirming its support for the polytechnic and encouraging all stakeholders to work together to protect the integrity and development of Nigeria’s educational institutions.
