LOKOJA, Nigeria (FN) — Kogi State Polytechnic has suspended five staff members and arrested four individuals posing as students in connection with a certificate forgery syndicate uncovered within the institution.
The Rector, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, announced the disciplinary actions during a press briefing, describing the incident as “a deliberate attempt to undermine the integrity of our academic system.” He confirmed that forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates were being used to gain admission and secure employment.
Among those suspended is a Deputy Registrar, whose alleged involvement is under investigation. The arrests followed a coordinated effort by the Polytechnic’s Admission, ICT, and Security Units, which uncovered falsified academic records and forged documents.
The scandal has drawn swift reactions from government officials and education stakeholders. Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, condemned the act, stating, “This is a betrayal of public trust. We will support the Polytechnic in ensuring full prosecution and systemic reforms.”
Professor Florence Banku Obi, Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, called for stronger inter-institutional safeguards. “This incident highlights the urgent need for a national verification framework to protect the credibility of our certificates,” she said.
Staff members at Kogi Polytechnic expressed shock and disappointment. “We work hard to uphold academic standards. It’s disheartening to see colleagues compromise that,” said Dr. Ibrahim Audu, a senior lecturer in the School of Management Studies.
Students also voiced concern. “We want to graduate with pride, knowing our certificates are earned, not bought,” said final-year student Blessing Ojo.
The Rector confirmed that 30 fake ND certificates had been recovered, and that more arrests were expected. One suspect, Dominic Egwuda, remains at large.
Management has pledged to strengthen internal controls and introduce biometric verification for admissions and results processing. “We are committed to restoring public confidence,” Usman said.
The Polytechnic reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on academic fraud and urged other institutions to remain vigilant.
