MAPOLY suspends academic activities as students plan protest

The management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has declared a temporary halt to academic operations due to the ongoing strike action by its workers. This decision comes after both the academic and non-academic staff members of MAPOLY initiated an indefinite strike on Thursday due to the nonpayment of their salaries for the months of July, August, and September.

In an internal communication distributed to all students by the Registrar, Olubunmi Elewodalu, the management announced the suspension of academic activities for a duration of one week, commencing on Monday, October 9th. The internal memo, identified as MAP/REG. 486/VOL I/188 and dated October 8, 2023, advised all students to refrain from being on campus until further notice.

“The Polytechnic’s management, acting on behalf of the Academic Board, hereby declares the suspension of all academic activities for a period of one (1) week. This temporary suspension is necessary to address the current challenges facing the Polytechnic. Academic activities will remain suspended from Monday, October 9th, to Friday, October 13th, 2023. During this period, all students are kindly requested to stay away from the campus until further instructions are provided. This directive from the management is hereby communicated to you for your information and appropriate action,” the internal memorandum conveyed.

The Public Relations Officer of MAPOLY, Yemi Ajibola, confirmed the suspension of academic activities, stating, “Yes, the management issued that memo. It is essential for students to return home since their lecturers will not be available to conduct classes.”

In the meantime, the polytechnic’s students have expressed their intention to organize a peaceful protest on Monday in response to the ongoing situation at MAPOLY.