By Waziri Isa Adam
Stakeholders at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa are alarmed by the shortlisting of Acting Rector, Dr. Hauwa T. Muhammad, for the substantive Rector position, despite her lack of a key and fundamental academic requirement. They urge the Governing Council to remain neutral and adhere to the Polytechnic Act of 2019, warning against any attempts to violate due process and compromise the institution’s stability.
Samuel Audi, Organizing Secretary of the stakeholders, emphasized the importance of upholding the law to ensure transparency and peace in the institution. “The Polytechnic Act is clear: candidates must meet specific qualifications, including a Doctorate Degree in a discipline offered in the Polytechnic Sector. We urge the council to respect this requirement and avoid giving in to pressure from individuals with selfish interests.”
Audi Argued that the Polytechnic Sector does not award any kind of certificate on Dr Muhammad’s discipline, therefore disqualifying her from applying for the position. “Her discipline, English Language, is not a core discipline in the Polytechnic Sector. This disqualifies her from being appointed as Rector in any Polytechnic that respects established laws.”
The stakeholders also pointed out that the Polytechnic Act of 2019 clearly states that candidates must have a minimum of a second-class lower division degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) with lower credit in a discipline offered in the Polytechnic Sector. “Dr. Muhammad’s qualifications do not meet this requirement,” Audi said.
Furthermore, the stakeholders expressed concern that violating the Polytechnic Act would undermine the institution’s credibility and stability. “We remind the council that the Polytechnic Act is in place to ensure transparency and fairness. Violating it would have far-reaching consequences for the institution’s future.”
The stakeholders commend the federal government for appointing a carefully selected council and pray for divine guidance in their decision-making. They also call on the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, and the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Bugaje, to support the council in upholding the law and ensuring a transparent process.
“We urge the council to prioritize the institution’s interests and make a decision that will bring enduring peace and stability,” Audi said. “The future of Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa depends on it.”