Just In! Kwara Polytechnic Closes Campus After NYSC Break Triggers Student Protest
By Gbenga Sodeinde
Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, has been temporarily shut following a protest by students over a three-week academic break approved to accommodate the ongoing National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation exercise.
The closure followed a clash between protesting students and security operatives at the institution’s main gate, which reportedly led to injuries and disruption of activities on campus.
Management of the Polytechnic explained that the break, which took effect from Monday, January 19, 2026, became necessary after the Kwara State Government designated the institution as a temporary NYSC orientation camp due to prevailing security concerns elsewhere in the state.
According to the school authorities, previous NYSC exercises were held during students’ vacation periods or when academic activities were partially in session.
However, the current orientation coincided with a full resumption of academic activities, a development that triggered discontent among students who had just returned from the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Confirming the incident, the Acting Registrar, AbdulHafis Amin, said tensions escalated during the protest, prompting police intervention.
“The situation at the main gate became tense and required police presence to restore order,” Amin said. “Unfortunately, some officers exceeded their mandate by deploying tear gas within the campus, which affected students and staff. Our Chief Security Officer was among those injured.”
Following the incident, Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq ordered the immediate closure of the Polytechnic to prevent further breakdown of law and order and to safeguard lives and property.
The Management has appealed to students, staff, and other stakeholders to remain calm as consultations continue with relevant authorities to address the situation.
“Our overriding concern is the safety of everyone within the Polytechnic community,” Amin added. “We are engaging all parties involved to ensure a swift and peaceful resolution.”