Students stormed Federal Polytechnic Offa on Monday to protest what they call improper admission methods that have made part-time students ineligible for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The demonstration began early Monday morning, with thousands of students blocking the institution's main gates and demanding quick action from the school management.
The problem arose from the enrollment of part-time students who, according to the demonstrators, were guaranteed NYSC eligibility upon completion of their degrees.
Many students, however, have realized that their admission status prevents them from participating in the mandated one-year service program, leaving them dissatisfied and upset.
"We were assured during our admission process that we would be eligible for NYSC like our full-time counterparts," claimed one of the protest leaders, who requested anonymity.
"Now we're being told that our entrance is illegal, and we can't serve our country. This is a violation of trust, and we will not tolerate it."
The students, who sang slogans and carried placards with messages like "No NYSC, No Peace!" and "We Demand Justice," urged the school administration to correct the situation and ensure that all part-time students are awarded NYSC eligibility.
In reaction to the protest, the school administration issued a statement advising students to remain calm and assuring them that the situation is being investigated.
The statement further stated that the administration is in discussions with relevant authorities, such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), to find a solution.
"We understand the concerns of our students and are committed to resolving this issue as swiftly as possible," according to the press release. "We urge all students to remain peaceful and refrain from any actions that may escalate the situation."
Despite the guarantees, the students have pledged to continue their protests until real efforts are taken to address their concerns.
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