Anxiety has returned to Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, amid allegations of sex-for-marks, cult activities and other misconduct months after a new rector took office.
Female students alleged that disciplinary systems put in place under former rector Salisu Usman have weakened, allowing social vices that were previously controlled to return.
Speaking separately in Lokoja on Sunday, the students requested anonymity, citing fears of victimisation or disciplinary action.
They alleged that some lecturers now demand sex or money from female students in exchange for grades or protection from academic failure.
Two lecturers in the Public Administration and Graphics Design departments were allegedly linked to demands for between N70,000 and N80,000. They were accused of threatening students with failure unless they “cooperate” or pay the demanded sums.
“Sadly, these things were tamed under the former management, but with the current ‘I don’t care’ attitude, the old traits are coming back,” a student said.
The student also alleged that one lecturer told a female student to book a hotel room and pay the bills ahead of a meeting. She reportedly complained to a management staff member but alleged that she was intimidated instead of being protected or seeing disciplinary action taken.
“The disciplinary structure has collapsed. Corrupt lecturers are getting emboldened while female students are suffering in silence for fear of rustication,” the student said.
Another student alleged that nocturnal cult meetings had returned, citing an incident near a female hostel about two weeks ago. She said it happened between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. and was reportedly reported to management by security personnel, but no action had been taken.
Students also alleged that dress codes and compulsory identity cards had been abandoned, while banned handout sales had returned.
They further complained of a reported increase of more than 200 per cent in school fees, saying it had worsened financial pressure.
Governor Usman Ododo was urged to intervene amid warnings that “impunity, truancy and indolence have taken over the legacies left behind by the former rector”.
However, the polytechnic said disciplinary action was already being taken against lecturers accused of violating its rules.
Its spokesman, John Onimisi, confirmed that six lecturers were suspended on Wednesday over alleged unauthorised sales of handouts and textbooks.
He also confirmed that another lecturer was suspended for sexual harassment.
“The disciplinary committee of the polytechnic is already investigating the allegations, and the outcome will be made available to journalists,” he said.
Onimisi did not specifically address the alleged return of cult activities.
The allegations have renewed calls from students and parents for stronger oversight, transparent investigations and decisive action to protect students. They also urged the institution to strengthen disciplinary systems and restore confidence in its ability to provide a safe academic environment.
