Delta Polytechnic Shut Down Following Armed Robbery Incidents

The decision to close the polytechnic comes after reports of incessant attacks on student hostels by hoodlums in various parts of the community. The closure is aimed at ensuring the security and well-being of the students, with academic activities set to resume on Monday, February 26.

Feb 20, 2024 - 13:08 Updated: Feb 20, 2024 - 15:12

Delta Polytechnic Shut Down Following Armed Robbery Incidents

Delta State Polytechnic, located in Ogwashi Uku, Aniocha South council area, has been temporarily closed for one week due to a series of armed robbery attacks on student hostels within the community. The Rector of the institution, Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu, announced the closure], citing concerns for the safety of students.

The decision to close the polytechnic comes after reports of incessant attacks on student hostels by hoodlums in various parts of the community. The closure is aimed at ensuring the security and well-being of the students, with academic activities set to resume on Monday, February 26.

In response to the situation, the Delta State Police Commissioner, Abaniwonda Olufemi, has taken decisive action by summoning the Area Commander and the Divisional Police Officer in Ogwashi. The Police Commissioner assured the public that security has been intensified in the polytechnic town, emphasizing that the police force is fully in control of the situation.

Meanwhile, the students' union of the school has issued a statement instructing all students residing in the hostels to comply with the management directive to proceed on semester break. The union, represented by its President, Comrade Victor Anthony, Secretary-General Onugege Graham, and Public Relations Officer Utomi Williams Blessings, assured students that measures are being taken by the school management, Student Union Government (SUG), the community, and security agencies to address the high insecurity prevalent in student hostels.

Reports from Ogwashi Uku indicate that many hostels along Azagba road, particularly those from African House to the school, as well as those inside the campus, have been deserted due to fear of attacks by criminals. Victims of the recent attacks have reported losses of mobile phones, laptops, and other valuables, with some female students reportedly subjected to robbery and assault.

The escalation of robberies on student hostels in Ogwashi Uku has raised concerns among residents, with eyewitnesses recounting harrowing experiences of armed robbers scaling fences, forcibly entering premises, and threatening residents. The closure of Delta State Polytechnic is a proactive measure aimed at addressing the security challenges and ensuring the safety of students and staff within the institution.