Students’ Protest: Kwara Poly Shut Over NYSC Camp Location
Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
The Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has been shut down following an unrest that broke out on the campus over the use of the institution as a temporary orientation camp for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The Polytechnic management said the decision to shut the institution was based on the directive of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to safeguard lives and property after the students protested a management-approved short break in order to allow smooth conduct of the NYSC orientation exercise.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Registrar, AbdulHafis Amin, the management explained that the state government had earlier designated the Polytechnic as a temporary NYSC orientation camp due to prevailing security challenges in Kwara State.
According to the statement, previous orientation exercises did not disrupt academic activities because students were either on break or had not fully resumed. However, the current NYSC exercise coincided with full academic activities, prompting management to approve a three-week break for the students, effective Monday, January 19, 2026.
“The decision was taken to properly manage the situation and prevent any breakdown of law and order during the orientation camp,” the statement said.
Management, however, noted that some students opposed the break, arguing that they had just returned from the Christmas and New Year holidays. The disagreement reportedly escalated, leading to tension at the institution’s main gate and the intervention of the police.
While the police were invited to restore order, the Polytechnic management alleged that some officers exceeded their brief by firing tear gas into the campus, including student hostels.
“Unfortunately, tear gas canisters were thrown into the Polytechnic premises, affecting students and staff, including our Chief Security Officer who sustained injuries,” the statement added.
Following the incident, Governor AbdulRazaq ordered the immediate closure of the Polytechnic to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of the campus community.
The management appealed to students, staff and other stakeholders to remain calm, assuring that discussions are ongoing with relevant authorities to resolve the matter quickly.
“We call on all members of the Polytechnic community to remain calm and cooperative as efforts are being made to address the situation amicably,” the Acting Registrar said.
