Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has ordered the immediate closure of Kwara State Polytechnic Institute in Ilorin following disturbances related to the temporary relocation of the National Youth Corps (NYSC) orientation camp to the campus.
The decision was announced Tuesday in Ilorin in a statement by the institute’s acting director, Abdulhafiz Amin. He stated that the closure was for the safety of people and property within the school community.
The state government had designated the polytechnic institute as a temporary NYSC orientation camp due to safety concerns at the Yikpata camp. According to the university administration, this arrangement had not caused problems during previous orientations, as students were either on vacation or had not yet fully resumed their studies.
However, all students were present at this orientation. To prevent disruptions and ensure the smooth running of the camp, the administration of the Polytechnic announced a three-week suspension of classes beginning Monday, January 19, 2026.
The polytechnic administration stated that some students protested this decision, as classes had only recently resumed after the Christmas and New Year holidays. The protest reportedly led to an escalation of tensions, necessitating police intervention.
In an attempt to disperse the crowd at the polytechnic main entrance, police officers reportedly deployed tear gas grenades on the college campus, including in the student dormitories. Several students and staff members were injured, and the college’s security chief was also reportedly injured.
Given the escalating situation, the governor ordered the polytechnic closed to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of the college community.
The polytechnic management called on students, staff and other involved parties to remain calm and cooperate, assuring them that it was working with the relevant authorities to resolve the situation quickly and amicably.
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