Ogun: Gov. Abiodun Warns Security Agents On Harassing Students

The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has been called on by students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, to save them from harassments they suffer from local security agents operating within their campus.

The students pleaded with Governor Abiodun when he met with them for a discussion on ways to improve their welfare in the state.

An ND2 student of Marketing identified as Blessing Adeyi stated that the harassment was getting too much as they are been treated like kids.

She further stated that the security is supported by the school management, especially the Dean of Students Affairs, to beat students, regardless of their gender.

Adeyi revealed how the security men beat her for allegedly wearing a top they considered ‘inappropriate’ for the polytechnic.

“The moment you have an issue with one of them, others will join and they will start slapping you, dragging you like a criminal. They once beat me and slapped me for wearing this top. That’s why I wore it today, maybe they will beat me again. Then, people will know what they are doing is not good.”

The Governor who was represented by his Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Azeez Adeyemi, noted that he would not allow any form of harassment from the from security guards to students of the polytechnic.

He appreciated the school management for ensuring good conducts in the institution, he, however, warned the school management not to expose them to any form of harassment, he said, “students should be handled honourably because they are our pride in Ogun State.”

“I have told our students to eschew cultism, indecency, violence among other social vices and I know they are law-abiding. I won’t allow anybody security agent to harass them for any reason. If they violate any rules, please handle them with dignity and respect; be professional in dealing with them,” he warned.

Adeyi promised the state government will work with the Chairman of Remo North Local Government to drill boreholes in students populated areas within the host communities.

He noted that the government would build hostels for accommodation and make classrooms conducive for learning.

The Rector of the polytechnic, Isaiah Oyeyinka, recalled how he has transformed the institution from shambles to what it is now, within five years.

He said the polytechnic is currently running 31 accredited programmes on full-time and part-time bases, adding that more accreditations of courses at HND levels are underway.

The Isara Divisional Police Officer, Kuye Olayinka, also informed the students of their safety within the community.

The DPO stated that no policeman will harass them if they remain peaceful and law-abiding.

Olayinka, however, warned the students from going out at night, saying anybody caught roaming at night would be arrested.