…as Student Leaders dissociate selves from planned demonstration
RismadarVoice Reporters, April 7, 2026
The Acting Rector, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Dr. Akanimo Jonah has issued a stern warning to students and external actors over an alleged protest reportedly being mobilized within the institution, firmly cautioning against any attempt to disrupt academic activities or destabilize the campus environment.
He gave the charge while addressing an emergency gathering of student leaders and stakeholders in his office on Monday 6th April, 2026.
In a strongly worded address, Dr. Akanimo read the Institution’s “riot act,” emphasizing its zero-tolerance stance on unlawful gatherings and activities that could threaten peace on campus while making it clear that the institution would not tolerate acts of indiscipline or agitation driven by misinformation.
He unequivocally stated that the management remains committed to maintaining order and ensuring that academic pursuits are not derailed by misinformation or external manipulation and warned that any individual or group found instigating unrest under the guise of protest would face strict disciplinary action in line with institutional regulations.
He also described His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno as an Education friendly Governor whose vision under ARISE Agenda has impacted greatly in the Educational sector and in turn, maintained peace in the state.
“Today Akwa Ibom State is one of the most peaceful states in the nation because of the personality of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D. As a peace loving Governor, he has always given matters of Education utmost attention and will always seek peaceful dialogue over protest.”
According to him, “This institution will not condone any act of lawlessness. We are open to dialogue and there are established channels through which grievances can be addressed. However, attempts to incite unrest or disrupt the academic calendar will be firmly resisted.”
Dr. Akanimo further urged students to remain focused on their studies and avoid being used as tools by individuals with ulterior motives, stressing that the management is always willing to engage constructively with genuine concerns.
Reinforcing this position, the Personal Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Comrade Wisdom Emmanuel, commended the proactive steps taken by the school management. He described the alleged protest as unnecessary and avoidable, noting that government remains attentive to students’ welfare.
He remarked, “Students must understand that dialogue remains the most effective means of resolving issues. Personally I am not aware of their concerns because the right channel have not been used in pushing these concerns, but any action that threatens peace or stability will only complicate matters. I urge all students to remain calm and law-abiding.”
Also speaking, the Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Unyime Udoudo, reiterated that there are structured mechanisms within the institution for addressing grievances. He emphasized that the Students Affairs Division remains accessible and responsive, urging students to utilize official channels rather than resorting to confrontation on social media.
“My doors are always open. We engage regularly with student representatives and I remain committed to resolving issues amicably. Those who posted about the protests online, are they students? Who are they? So let us always avoid certain things especially when dialogue has not been exhausted,” he stated.
In a unified stance, the Students’ Union Government (SUG), Students’ Union Parliament and NANS Stakeholders leadership categorically disassociated itself from the alleged protest. Speaking on behalf of the leaders, the SUG President, Comrade Wisdom Udoimuk, clarified that the union was neither involved in nor aware of any planned demonstration.
He stated, “The Students Leaders are not part of any protest arrangement. We operate within the framework of dialogue and engagement. We advise students to disregard any calls for protests that do not emanate from recognized leadership structures.”
The President further assured management of the union’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability on campus while continuing to represent students’ interests responsibly.
Providing a broader perspective on student activism, Pastor Uko Michael, a National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) cadre, addressed concerns surrounding internal dynamics within the student body, particularly the issue of NANS. In his detailed remarks, he explained that NANS is designed to ensure fairness, inclusivity and balanced representation across regions. However, he cautioned against the misuse of certain privileges.
“We run a structural framework meant to foster unity, not division. It ensures that leadership opportunities are equitably distributed. Unfortunately, misunderstandings about zoning sometimes lead to unnecessary tension. Students must not allow national-level dynamics to be misinterpreted or exploited locally,” he explained.
He further emphasized that agitation based on misinformed perceptions of zoning could destabilize campus harmony, urging students to seek proper clarification before taking action.
“What we need now is enlightenment, not agitation. Students must remain informed and avoid being drawn into conflicts that do not directly affect their academic environment,” he added.
In his remark, Comrade Michael Ibanga, former NANS Zonal Public Relations Officer, delivered a unifying message, calling for calm and collective responsibility.
He noted that while student activism remains a vital part of democratic expression, it must be exercised with caution and within the bounds of established regulations.
“There is strength in unity and wisdom in restraint. Students must prioritize their education while engaging constructively with authorities. Any action that undermines peace ultimately works against the collective interest of the student body,” he concluded.
The event also had in attendance the Chairman JCU, AKWAPOLY, Comr. Archibong Archibong, Deputy Registrar, Students Affairs, Pastor Ibanga Nathaniel, Desk Officer SPI, Mr. Michael Ugo, Mr. Columba Akpan, Rep. of NANS Stakeholders, Comrade Wisdom Nnamso, NIDSUG President, Senator Godgift Udoakang, Councilor Ikot Ekpene Ward 8, Hon. Nsini Umoh, Rep. of Police and DSS.
