Kwara Poly Shut Indefinitely Following Student Protest Over NYSC Camp

The Kwara State Government has ordered the immediate closure of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, following a student protest on Tuesday over the use of the institution as a temporary orientation camp for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq directed the closure to prevent further breakdown of law and order and to safeguard lives and property, according to a statement from the school’s acting Registrar, AbdulHafis Amin.

The protest stemmed from student opposition to the state government’s decision to host NYSC members on campus during an active academic session. The polytechnic had been designated as a temporary camp due to security concerns elsewhere in the state. While previous NYSC batches used the facility during student breaks, the current orientation coincided with full academic activities.

In response, the school management had earlier granted students a three-week break, effective January 19. However, some students rejected the move, arguing they had just resumed from the Christmas and New Year holiday. The disagreement escalated into a protest on Tuesday.

During the demonstration, security operatives were called in to restore order. The institution’s management stated that while police intervention was sought, some officers “allegedly exceeded their mandate” by firing tear gas canisters into the campus and hostels. This action reportedly left several students and staff injured, including the polytechnic’s Chief Security Officer.

The Students’ Union Government condemned the use of force, stating the protest was peaceful. SUG President Maruf Ibrahim said students were demonstrating against safety, welfare, and academic disruptions caused by the NYSC arrangement.

Eyewitness accounts and videos on social media depicted a heavy security presence, with claims that police fired shots to disperse crowds, causing panic and injuries.

The state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party criticized the state government’s planning and described the police response as an excessive use of force against unarmed students. The party called for an independent investigation and a public apology.

The Kwara State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident at the time of reporting.

The closure raises concerns about the balance between public utility and academic continuity, with stakeholders urging dialogue to ensure both security and student welfare.