The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has secured leniency for 32 students of Auchi Polytechnic who were rusticated and expelled following a protest in May 2025 that led to the destruction of school property.

In a statement issued by its President, Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, and made available to journalists on Friday, the association said the protest resulted in damage worth millions of naira and disciplinary action against the affected students.

The statement noted that while some of the students were found culpable of gross misconduct in violation of the institution’s rules and Student Handbook, NAPS intervened after receiving appeals from the students and their parents.

According to Oghayan, the association, in a letter dated March 23, 2026, condemned the actions of the students but appealed to the institution’s management to temper justice with mercy and grant the affected students a second chance.

Following the intervention, the management of Auchi Polytechnic invited a NAPS delegation for further engagement. The delegation, led by Oghayan, included Yakubu Peter Odion, whose role was described as instrumental in facilitating dialogue, alongside other stakeholders.

During the meeting, the Rector, Salisu Shehu Umar, expressed dissatisfaction over the students’ conduct but said the institution adopted a “parental approach” after careful consideration.

Resolutions reached include the full exoneration of students earlier rusticated, while those expelled had their punishment reduced to rustication and are to resume in the next academic session.

The affected students are also required to pay for damages caused during the protest, while those who missed their examinations will be allowed to sit for them with evening students. (Tribune)