By: Olufadi Balarabe Ayuba, ANIPR.
On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq instructed Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, the Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, to step aside pending further notice, with the most senior Deputy Rector stepping in temporarily. This decision stemmed from escalating student protests that gripped the institution, which highlighted deep-seated frustrations among the student body.
Yet, as we reflect on this unfolding narrative, it becomes imperative to seek a path of reconciliation and understanding—one that acknowledges missteps but champions redemption and continued progress.
The protests, which began as legitimate expressions of student grievances. At the core of the unrest was the issue of the temporary relocation of the NYSC camp to the polytechnic.
Amid this turbulence, we turn our gaze to Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed—a dedicated engineer and administrator whose tenure has been marked by quiet yet impactful achievements. Your Excellency, we humbly appeal for leniency in reconsidering this directive. The Rector, a man of integrity and vision, has undoubtedly learned from these events. Mistakes, after all, are the crucibles in which great leaders are refined. As a proven administrator, Dr. Mohammed possesses the acumen to make amends swiftly and effectively. His engineering background equips him with a problem-solving mindset that turns challenges into opportunities. Imagine him channeling this into reforms that address the root causes of the protests.
Your Excellency, kindly consider the good works that merit this second chance. Under Dr. Mohammed’s stewardship, the Polytechnic has seen remarkable strides in academic excellence and infrastructure development. He has spearheaded the introduction of cutting-edge programmes in technology and vocational training, equipping students with skills tailored to Kwara’s burgeoning economy. Campus facilities have been upgraded, from modern laboratories to creating a nurturing space for innovation. His initiatives in community outreach, such as partnerships with local industries for internships and skill workshops, have bridged the gap between academia and real-world application, empowering thousands of young Kwarans to become self-reliant contributors to society. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as enrollment has surged, and graduate employability rates have climbed, painting a picture of a thriving institution under his watchful eye.
Moreover, Dr. Mohammed’s leadership beautifully complements the visionary agenda of Your Excellency’s administration. Just as the Sardauna of Ilorin has championed inclusive growth, educational reform, and youth empowerment across Kwara State, the Rector has ensured that the Polytechnic’s operations align seamlessly with this blueprint. He has prioritized programmes that support the state’s focus on agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship—mirroring initiatives like the Kwara Innovation Hub and agricultural revitalization projects. By integrating state government policies into the curriculum, such as sustainability modules and digital literacy drives, Dr. Mohammed has made the Polytechnic a vital cog in the machinery of Kwara’s progress. Reinstate him, and this synergy will only deepen, accelerating the shared dream of a prosperous, educated Kwara where every citizen thrives.
Your Excellency, in the spirit of compassion that defines great leadership, we beseech you to extend a hand of mercy. Allow Dr. Mohammed to return, wiser and more resolute, to continue his noble service. The students, institutes, and community deserve continuity under a leader who has proven his mettle. Let this moment not be one of division, but of healing and renewed commitment. For the sake of Kwara’s future, reconsider and reinstate Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed—he is not just a Rector, but a symbol of hope ready to shine brighter.
Please, Your Excellency, hearken to our passionate appeal, Sir.
We don’t want him again ooo
Bring another rector for us
Werey le leyin oo
We know your type, set awon alaburu
The decision make by the rector is selfish for me,coz I feel pity for those students that were told to vacate the hostel,to me is like he expose parent financial ability by given the such a quick vacate