Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State — A major controversy has shaken Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, following the suspension of the institution’s Registrar, Dr. Jude Okocha. While social media and online news outlets were quick to label the suspension as unfair and politically motivated, deeper investigation reveals a much more complex and serious situation involving issues of financial misconduct, abuse of office, and systemic corruption.
What Really Happened?
Earlier reports claimed that Dr. Okocha’s suspension by the Polytechnic’s Governing Council was dictatorial and done without due process. These claims sparked a protest at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat in Asaba, where a group called the Concerned Youths of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom showed up with placards, accusing the Council of abuse of power.
But after interviews, undercover findings, and reviewing internal documents, it turns out these claims were misleading and likely sponsored by people trying to cover up bigger issues in the institution.
What Investigations Uncovered
Reliable sources within the school’s management revealed that the current Governing Council, led by Hon. Paul Adingwupu, has actually been working to clean up years of mismanagement. This includes uncovering:
- Over 200 ad hoc staff hired without proper authorization.
- Non-payment of these staff until the Council intervened.
- Allegations that the Rector, Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu, misused ₦48 million meant for academic accreditation.
- Certificate racketeering – where fake or illegal certificates were issued, putting the credibility of the Polytechnic at risk.
Why the Registrar Was Suspended
The Council says that Dr. Jude Okocha’s suspension followed all legal and procedural steps:
- He was formally queried.
- He was invited to respond in writing and to appear before a disciplinary panel.
- The Council reviewed the evidence and acted within the law.
Insiders say Okocha was also involved in shady practices, including attempts to reinstate a previously dismissed staff member, Charles Nduka, who had been caught in a certificate scam back in 2018. At the time, Okocha was Deputy Registrar and allegedly helped cover it up.
The Rector’s Role and the Bigger Battle
Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu, the current Rector, is also under heavy criticism. Staff members describe him as being absent for long periods, often claiming to be on “official duty” in Abuja. His absence has reportedly disrupted school operations, and many staff say he and others have been working against the Governing Council, especially now that financial irregularities are being investigated.
There is also a climate of fear on campus. Staff say they are afraid to speak up, fearing victimization from those trying to hold on to power and privileges.
The Protest: A Misguided Move?
The protest organized at the NUJ secretariat was led by Comrade Humble Ochei and Tony Obichie, under the Concerned Youth of Ogwashi-Uku. Critics say the protest was not about justice, but about protecting those implicated in the scandal. Many believe these “youth leaders” were misled or sponsored to pressure the Council and distract from the real issues.
Why This Matters
For years, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, has struggled with poor management and a reputation hit by scandals. But now, with a new Council trying to enforce accountability, there is pushback from those who benefitted from the old corrupt system.
The fight isn’t just about Dr. Okocha — it’s about whether the institution can clean up its act and build a credible, transparent, and well-run educational system.
One senior staff said:
“This is not about the community. It’s about those who want to keep the system porous for personal gains.”
Where the Law Stands
According to Nigeria’s educational guidelines, Governing Councils have the right to suspend or discipline senior staff members when there is evidence of misconduct — as long as due process is followed. In this case, documents show that due process was indeed followed.
What Did Okocha and the Rector Say?
When contacted for comments:
- Dr. Jude Okocha said he had no idea about the protest and told the journalist to speak to the Rector.
- Prof. Achuenu said he won’t speak publicly until the government finishes its investigation into the certificate scandal. What Now?
Stakeholders are urging calm and asking the Delta State Government to:
- Thoroughly investigate all allegations.
- Protect the integrity of the Polytechnic.
- Support the Governing Council in restoring order and credibility.
The Big Question
Will the public side with truth, accountability, and institutional reform, or allow emotions and misinformation to derail progress at Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku?
One thing is clear: this is a defining moment for the school — and a test of how committed we are, as a society, to fighting corruption and upholding transparency in our education system.
