By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for an independent investigation into the challenges confronting Osun State Polytechnic (OSPOLY), Iree, saying urgent intervention is needed to safeguard academic standards and protect students’ welfare.

In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, the student body urged relevant regulatory and oversight agencies to investigate allegations relating to the institution’s academic administration, infrastructure, and student services.

NANS said its intervention was not aimed at targeting any individual or the institution’s management but was motivated by the need to strengthen tertiary education and ensure that students receive quality learning in a conducive environment.

According to the association, students have raised concerns over alleged disruptions to teaching activities, the conduct of computer-based examinations, and the availability of adequate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities.

The association also expressed concern over reports that some students encountered difficulties during recent computer-based tests, alleging that technical challenges affected the examination process and placed undue pressure on candidates.

NANS further called on the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to review the deployment of intervention funds to the institution, particularly those intended for ICT and infrastructure development, to ensure public resources are effectively utilised.
It also urged the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other relevant agencies to independently verify the allegations and recommend appropriate measures where necessary.

The student body additionally referenced concerns previously raised by some graduates over delays in their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) mobilisation, urging the relevant authorities and the institution to work together to resolve any outstanding administrative issues affecting graduates.

NANS maintained that an independent fact-finding exercise would help establish the true state of affairs, restore public confidence in the institution, and improve the quality of academic delivery.

The association issued a seven-day call for the commencement of the proposed investigation, warning that it would consider further peaceful actions if no concrete steps were taken by the relevant authorities.

It also appealed to the management of the institution to ensure that no student or whistleblower is subjected to intimidation or victimisation for expressing concerns, stressing that protecting students’ rights and promoting accountability remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s tertiary education system.