A recent social media post sparked concerns about a shooting incident at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, during the Students' Union election. However, the management of the polytechnic has swiftly dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that the reported shootings were merely rumors and had no connection to the institution.
Unraveling the Truth
The Acting Director of Information, Protocol, and Public Relations, Sola Lawal, clarified that while there were isolated instances of violence in the Odo-Eja area of Ede on November 3, 2025, these incidents were unrelated to the polytechnic community. Lawal stressed that the purported shootings within the polytechnic environment were baseless and unfounded, with no link to the ongoing students' union elections.
A Call for Calm and Security
The polytechnic's management advised members of the community to disregard the rumors, which could cause unnecessary confusion, especially among parents and guardians. They assured the public that they would continue to prioritize the security of the polytechnic environment, implementing necessary measures before, during, and after the election of the Students' Union Leadership.
A History of Decisive Action
This incident is not the first time the management has taken a firm stance on security matters. In July 2024, the polytechnic expelled 27 students for their alleged involvement in a protest that resulted in property vandalism. Earlier that year, in May 2024, students staged a violent protest on campus, expressing dissatisfaction with the arrest of their colleagues by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. During this protest, the staff club was attacked, and several vehicles were damaged.
A Controversial Interpretation?
Some might argue that the management's response to these incidents raises questions about the freedom of expression and the right to protest within the polytechnic community. Is there a fine line between maintaining order and suppressing legitimate grievances?
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