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Kogi Poly Uncovers Certificate Forgery, Document Falsification Syndicate, Vows To Deal With Culprits

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Kogi State Polytechnic
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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has uncovered massive certificate forgery and document falsification syndicate in the institution with a vow to deal with culprits

The Rector of the Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo disclosed this while briefing Journalists in his office, the development which he described as “of serious concern regarding the integrity of its academic system”.

Professor Ogbo said the institution uncovered the scandal involving some students, non-students, and some members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records of the institution.

According to the Rector, the syndicate was found to have manipulated academic records, forged results, and attempted to obtain original certificates using fake documents, in connivance with some staff members, including a Deputy Registrar, who are currently on suspension.

He explained that the syndicate forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some individuals even attempting to collect original certificates for the fabricated results, noting that “such criminal acts represent an assault on the credibility and reputation of our institution, and they cannot be allowed to go unpunished”.

He said investigations revealed several cases of document falsification, including forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some suspects compromising the institution’s security arrangements and tampering with security features on the institution’s Statements of Result.

Highlighting some of the cases under investigation, Professor Ogbo revealed that one Amina Mustapha forged ND and HND results and attempted to use them to obtain original certificates in connivance with some staff members.

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Amina who was alleged to have appeared alongside a staff member, Mr. Dominic Egwuda, who is currently on the run, to collect both ND and HND certificates in Computer Science never attended the institution as a student.

He cited another case involving Mfon Asuquo, a student who had absconded with multiple carry-overs, fraudulently obtained a statement of result.

He said Dansuma Mercy Sunday, who connived with a former student, Henry Tope, also forged statements of result.

The Rector who noted that the suspects used sophisticated methods to compromise the instruction’s security arrangements and tamper with security features on official documents, said all the suspects involved in the forgery scandal would be handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution, to serve as a deterrent to others.

Prof. Ogbo recalled that before joining KSPL, the academic integrity of the institution was nothing to write home about due to the activities of some individuals who forged security documents, particularly the Statement of Results.

“Then, it was alarmingly easy for individuals to forge and print statements of result of the Polytechnic at business centres. Some even had the audacity to present such forged results back to the Polytechnic, and to the same department they allegedly “graduated” from”.

He explained further that his administration, on assumption of duty, however changed the Statement of Results template to a more secure version, which had minimized the forgery to the barest minimum.

“In addition, we have also implemented comprehensive reforms across all sectors of the Polytechnic, aimed at achieving academic excellence and restoring the integrity of the institution.

“In the same vein, we introduced stringent measures to enhance quality assurance, stamp out irregularities and curb sharp practices.”

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He said despite the successes recorded in the fight against the malaise, ”it’s disheartening that the Polytechnic has once again uncovered document falsification syndicate involving some students, non-students and a few dishonest members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records in flagrant disregard of due process and institutional values “.
“Following intelligence reports and routine verification exercises by the Admission, ICT, and Security units, a detailed investigation was launched in collaboration with relevant law enforcement agencies.

“Investigation revealed shocking levels of audacity and deceit. Some of the suspects forged National Diploma (ND) results in the name of Kogi State Polytechnic and had the temerity to apply for Higher National Diploma HND admission in the same institution using the forged ND results. Even more alarming, others forged both ND and HND results and had the guts to apply for the collection of original certificates for the same fabricated results”.

“We are pleased to inform the public that four suspects involved in the forgery of statements of result were apprehended during registration. They have been handed over to our security unit, whose investigation led to the unmasking of the broader syndicate behind this academic fraud”.

“In another discovery, a staff member in the Exams and Records unit already under disciplinary review had in his possession 30 forged Statements of Result bearing different names and programmes. Security operatives also recovered several fake official stamps, stamp pads and admission letters bearing different names and programmes from his residence”.

While reiterating its uncompromising zero-tolerance policy for academic fraud and unethical conduct, the Rector emphasized that any staff member, student, or external collaborator found culpable will face the full wrath of the law and institutional disciplinary measures.

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“We shall not relent in our effort to expose and eliminate all forms of misconduct that is capable of denting hard earned reputation of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

“All individuals involved in this forgery scandal will be immediately handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others.”

He again assured the public, other stakeholders and the Polytechnic community that its quality assurance measures and security mechanisms remain fully active and uncompromised, insisting that the institution will not relent in its efforts to protect its integrity and reputation.

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.

Education

Kogi Poly Sacks Two Staff, Demotes Deputy Registrar Over Misconduct

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Kogi State Polytechnic
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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Governing Council of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has approved the termination of the appointment of Mr. Mukhtar Muhammed, an Administrative Officer II, for sexual molestation. adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Similarly, the appointment of Mrs. Funmilayo Afolabi, an Assistant Chief Executive Officer, was terminated for absconding from duty for nine months.

The Council equally approved the demotion of a Deputy Registrar, Mr. Audu Mathew, to the rank of Principal Assistant Registrar over negligence of duty.

The Council further approved the promotion of 11 Principal Lecturers to the rank of Chief Lecturer, as well as the promotion of 572 other teaching and non-teaching staff of the institution.

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These decisions were among the far-reaching resolutions taken at the 72nd Regular Meeting of the Governing Council, presided over by the Chairman, Barrister Sani Shaibu.

The Council also approved the recommendation that 49 academic staff and 71 non-teaching staff be promoted for the 2024 promotion exercise. It further approved the promotion of 225 academic staff and 227 non-teaching staff for the 2025 promotion exercise.

Earlier in his address, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, expressed his appreciation to members of the Governing Council for their presence at the meeting, describing it as a clear reflection of their steadfast commitment to the institution’s growth, stability, and sound governance.

Prof. Usman also informed the Council of the uncovering of a result forgery syndicate involving one Mr. Henry Tope, who was apprehended in possession of 30 statements of result and one original certificate, all bearing the name and insignia of the Polytechnic.

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He further expressed gratitude to the Visitor to the Polytechnic and Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his support, leadership, and continued guidance.

Prof. Usman stressed that Governor Ododo’s administration has provided an enabling environment that has enhanced academic stability, infrastructural development, and overall institutional growth at the Polytechnic.

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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NGO Heightens Advocacy for Indigenous Climate Education With Pulitzer Center

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Ace Initiative for Sustainable Development, has successfully concluded a comprehensive climate education programme supported by the Pulitzer Centre.

The event bringing together primary schools, universities, government representatives, and environmental experts in a landmark effort to expand climate literacy across Nigeria. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">

The project, which culminated virtually on the 27th to 28th November, unfolded in three phases: primary school outreach, an inter-university climate competition, and a high-level panel discussion.

Prof. Sade Oderinde, representing the Acting Vice Chancellor of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Prof. Adekunle Olanrewaju Adeogun, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the university’s commitment to environmental education.

The first phase introduced climate education to five public primary schools in Ijebu-Ode through engaging Yoruba-language videos adapted from Pulitzer Centre climate investigations.

Stories including “Investigation: How Big Businesses, Individuals Deplete Nigeria’s Protected Forests” by Uchenna Igwe, “Red Gold Project: Battle for the Soul of Depleting Nigerian Forest Reserve” by Taiwo Adebulu, and “Amid Deforestation Scourge, Vanishing Herbal Plants Pose Health Crisis in Southwestern Nigeria” by Abdulwaheed Sofiullahi and other Pulitzer stories were transformed into illustrated storytelling videos featuring indigenous proverbs and local examples.

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Project Lead, Dr. Oluwaseun Anselm, coordinated the outreach together with Dr. Faleke Mary, the Schools Liaison Lead.

Participating schools included Emmanuel Anglican Primary School I and II, St Augustine Primary School, Olu-Ola Primary School, and Moslem Primary School.

Pre- and post-learning assessments revealed significant improvements in climate awareness, with pupils making “Climate Hero Pledges” to protect trees, conserve water, and educate their families.

The second phase brought universities students together from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria including TASFUED, University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Jos, Federal University Kashere, Federal University of Education Zaria, Yobe State University, and University of Ilorin.

Students analysed Pulitzer stories to discuss climate challenges and propose solutions ranging from urban heat mitigation to reforestation strategies.

Institutional representatives including Dr Yakubu Salihu Muhammad (Federal University Kashere), Dr Yusuf Abdulkabir Toriola (Federal University of Education Zaria), Dr Seun Nurudeen Akorede (Ahmadu Bello University), Dr Jamiu AbdulQudus Tosin (University of Ilorin) and others, mobilised student participation.

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The programme climaxed with a panel discussion opened by Prof. Oladipo Samuel, Director of Research and External Relations at TASFUED.

Distinguished panellists included Dr Godsday Usiabulu, Certified African Climate Ambassador; Prof. Oluwafemi Saibu, Professor of Economics at University of Lagos; Prof. Adefunke Ekine, Department of Childhood Education, TASFUED; and Prof. Adekunle Bamiro, Department of Chemical Sciences, TASFUED.

Other were: Dr Oluwatoyin Fatunsi, Environmental Chemist, University of Lagos; Prof. Moshood Bello, Department of Health and Safety Promotion, TASFUED; Mr Rasaq Olatunji, Forest Economist and Acting Project Manager at J4; and Prof. Zacchaeus Ojekunle, Department of Geography, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

Panellists engaged with Pulitzer investigations including “How Airports Fuel Climate Change in Nigeria” by Nkrumah Bankong-Obi, “Cost of Farming: How Iseyin Women Farmers Cope with Climate Change and credit Crunch” by Francis Annagu and “Climate Shocks, Governance Gaps and the Refugee Crisis in the Sahel,” by Ibrahim Adeyemi and other stories published with support of Pulitzer Center, USA.

The programme successfully created a coherent knowledge pipeline from child-friendly indigenous narratives to advanced policy analysis.

Ace Initiative for Sustainable Development plans to expand this model to additional states, reaching more schools and strengthening climate resilience conversations nationwide.

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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AGILE Trains 130 Non-Formal Education Facilitators In Kogi

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

The Kogi State Ministry of Education, through the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, has trained 130 facilitators drawn from non-formal education centres across the three senatorial districts of the state, to strengthen the delivery of second-chance and alternative education programmes. com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">

The two-day capacity-building training, held under AGILE Sub-Component 2.2C (Second Chance/Alternative Education) in partnership with the Participation Initiative for Behavioural Change in Development (PIBCID), focused on enhancing facilitators’ understanding of post-literacy manuals, harmonising instructional methods, and promoting participatory and adult learning techniques.

Speaking at the event, the State Project Coordinator (SPC), Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Oricha, described the training as a strategic intervention aimed at improving access, quality, and equity in education delivery. He noted that non-formal education remains critical to reaching adolescents and young people excluded from the formal system, adding that well-trained facilitators are central to achieving the objectives of the AGILE Project at the grassroots.

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Alhaji Oricha urged participants to apply learner-centred approaches in their respective centres, stressing that their commitment and professionalism would directly influence learning outcomes and the overall success of the Second Chance Education programme.

The Component Lead, Hajia Mariam Bello, said the training was designed to ensure uniformity and consistency in content delivery across all non-formal education centres. She explained that facilitators were taken through structured sessions to deepen their understanding of lesson sequencing, integrated teaching approaches, and effective classroom engagement for adult and adolescent learners.

According to her, adopting participatory methods would help create inclusive learning environments that respond to learners’ realities while advancing AGILE’s goal of improved literacy, numeracy, and life skills acquisition.

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Also speaking, the Executive Director of PIBCID, Mrs. Racheal Akande, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting capacity development and behaviour-change interventions that strengthen teaching quality within the non-formal education sector.

The training featured technical sessions in English Language, Mathematics, Civic Literacy, and Basic Science, facilitated by experienced resource persons and reinforced through interactive discussions.

Participants described the programme as timely and impactful, pledging to deploy the skills acquired to improve learning outcomes across non-formal education centres in Kogi State.
Ends.

Author Profile

Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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