The management of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has suspended six lecturers over allegations bordering on cultism, sexual harassment and the unauthorised sale of handouts and textbooks.
The institution disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by its Public Relations Officer, John Onimisi.
According to the statement, six lecturers were suspended on July 22 over the alleged unauthorised sale of handouts and textbooks, while another lecturer was placed on suspension over allegations of sexual harassment.
The action follows growing concerns over reports of alleged sexual misconduct, cult related activities and other cases of indiscipline within the institution.
The allegations include claims that some lecturers demanded sexual favours or money from female students in exchange for favourable grades.
There were also reports that some students who complained about alleged sexual harassment received little institutional support and were instead subjected to intimidation.
The institution was further accused of witnessing a resurgence of cult related activities, with reports alleging that some groups had resumed nocturnal meetings on campus despite previous efforts to curb the menace.
Other allegations included the reintroduction of compulsory handout sales, a relaxation of the institution’s dress code and weak enforcement of the student identity card policy, developments said to have contributed to declining discipline on campus.
Reacting to the claims, Onimisi said the management had commenced investigations through the institution’s disciplinary committee.
He assured that appropriate action would be taken in line with the findings of the committee, stressing the institution’s commitment to upholding discipline and maintaining academic standards.