The Federal Polytechnic Nekede has debunked claims of union suppression following a recent report in Nigeria Watch Dog alleging interference with union activities by the institution’s Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkem Igbokwe.
In a statement issued by Noble Uchegbu Zachariah Uchechukwu, Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters, the institution clarified that the Rector only advised the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Nekede Chapter, to postpone its 3rd Quarter Congress on October 29, 2024, citing security concerns. The union’s subsequent decision to proceed against this advice, the statement noted, was disrespectful and unprofessional.
The statement stated that the Rector, who also serves as the institution’s Chief Security Officer, acted in the best interest of peace and order on campus. Allegations of union suppression were described as baseless and part of a smear campaign.
Dr. Igbokwe’s administration reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, highlighting achievements under her 11-point agenda for institutional development.
The public was urged to disregard misinformation aimed at discrediting the Rector’s leadership.
Read the full statement below:
REJOINDER: ADDRESSING MISINFORMATION ON UNION ACTIVITIES AT FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC NEKEDE
The Media Office of the Rector, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, has taken note of the publication titled “Outrage, As Nekede Polytechnic Rector Moves to Suppress Union Activities” in Nigeria Watch Dog (Vol. 10, No. 141, Dec. 2024). Ordinarily, this publication would have been ignored. However, the need to address its factual inaccuracies and prevent the public from being misled necessitates this response.
It is regrettable that a platform bearing the name Watch Dog would fail to uphold basic journalistic standards of verification and investigation. The headline and content of the publication are both misleading and unfounded.
Setting the Record Straight
On October 29, 2024, the Rector, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkem Igbokwe, hosted officials of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Nekede Chapter, in her office. During the meeting, the union expressed its intention to hold the 3rd Quarter Congress. The Rector, acting on a security report, advised the union to postpone the Congress until the identified concerns were adequately addressed to ensure peace and safety on campus.
Contrary to this advice, the ASUP leadership, led by Engr. Stanley Nwadike, proceeded with the Congress in defiance of the Rector’s directive. Such blatant disregard for the institution’s Chief Executive Officer, who also serves as its Chief Security Officer, is both unprofessional and disrespectful.
Furthermore, Engr. Nwadike’s subsequent allegations of union suppression are baseless. The Rector’s actions were aimed solely at maintaining peace and order on campus. Dr. (Mrs.) Igbokwe has consistently demonstrated an inclusive leadership style, engaging constructively with all unions and stakeholders in the institution since assuming office.
Refuting Additional Claims
Engr. Nwadike’s public statements, including a recent television interview, have not only misrepresented the institution but also exposed the campus to unnecessary media controversies. His accusations and actions appear to be driven by ulterior motives rather than a genuine commitment to the union’s welfare.
It is pertinent to remind Engr. Nwadike and others with similar inclinations of the following:
Primary Responsibility: As an employee of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, your core responsibility is academic excellence. All extracurricular activities must align with institutional policies and respect the office of the Rector.
Respect for Authority: The Rector is the legitimate Chief Executive Officer of the institution, duly appointed to serve a tenure of five years. Attempts to undermine her leadership through misinformation are both futile and counterproductive.
Commitment to Peace: The Rector has initiated mechanisms, including a Seven-Man Committee, to address any disputes within the union amicably.
A Call for Responsible Engagement
Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Igbokwe remains committed to her 11-point agenda tagged 4Rs- Rescue, Recover, Reconstruct, and Restore for Federal Polytechnic Nekede. Her administration prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the well-being of all staff and students. The institution will not be distracted by a few individuals intent on perpetuating discord for personal gain.
As we approach her 100th day in office, milestones achieved under her leadership will be publicly highlighted during a Thanksgiving Service to celebrate the progress made so far. We welcome all stakeholders, including detractors, to join this celebration of growth and achievement.
The public is urged to disregard any misinformation aimed at discrediting the Rector’s administration. Federal Polytechnic Nekede is on a steady path of transformation, and no amount of falsehoods can derail this progress.
Signed,
Noble Uchegbu Zachariah Uchechukwu
Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters
December 11, 2024
