The Kogi State Polytechnic on Monday disclosed that it has uncovered a document falsification syndicate operating and manipulating academic records within the institution.

The Rector, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo made the revelation while briefing Journalists in his office on a matter he described as “of serious concern regarding the integrity of its academic system”.

Professor Ogbo said the institution uncovered the scandal involving some students, non-students, and some members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records of the institution.

According to the Rector, the syndicate was found to have manipulated academic records, forged results, and attempted to obtain original certificates using fake documents, in connivance with some staff members, including a Deputy Registrar, who are currently on suspension.

He explained that the syndicate forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some individuals even attempting to collect original certificates for the fabricated results, noting that “such criminal acts represent an assault on the credibility and reputation of our institution, and they cannot be allowed to go unpunished”.

He said investigations revealed several cases of document falsification, including forged National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) results, with some suspects compromising the institution’s security arrangements and tampering with security features on the institution’s Statements of Result.

Highlighting some of the cases under investigation, Professor Ogbo revealed that one Amina Mustapha forged ND and HND results and attempted to use them to obtain original certificates in connivance with some staff members.

Amina who was alleged to have appeared alongside a staff member, Mr. Dominic Egwuda, who is currently on the run, to collect both ND and HND certificates in Computer Science never attended the institution as a student.

He cited another case involving Mfon Asuquo, a student who had absconded with multiple carry-overs, fraudulently obtained a statement of result.

He said Dansuma Mercy Sunday, who connived with a former student, Henry Tope, also forged statements of result.

The Rector who noted that the suspects used sophisticated methods to compromise the instruction’s security arrangements and tamper with security features on official documents, said all the suspects involved in the forgery scandal would be handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution, to serve as a deterrent to others.

Prof. Ogbo recalled that before joining KSPL, the academic integrity of the institution was nothing to write home about due to the activities of some individuals who forged security documents, particularly the Statement of Results.

“Then, it was alarmingly easy for individuals to forge and print statements of result of the Polytechnic at business centres. Some even had the audacity to present such forged results back to the Polytechnic, and to the same department they allegedly “graduated” from”.

He explained further that his administration, on assumption of duty, however changed the Statement of Results template to a more secure version, which had minimized the forgery to the barest minimum.

“In addition, we have also implemented comprehensive reforms across all sectors of the Polytechnic, aimed at achieving academic excellence and restoring the integrity of the institution.

“In the same vein, we introduced stringent measures to enhance quality assurance, stamp out irregularities and curb sharp practices.”

He said despite the successes recorded in the fight against the malaise, ”it’s disheartening that the Polytechnic has once again uncovered document falsification syndicate involving some students, non-students and a few dishonest members of staff who conspired to manipulate academic records in flagrant disregard of due process and institutional values “.

“Following intelligence reports and routine verification exercises by the Admission, ICT, and Security units, a detailed investigation was launched in collaboration with relevant law enforcement agencies.

“Investigation revealed shocking levels of audacity and deceit. Some of the suspects forged National Diploma (ND) results in the name of Kogi State Polytechnic and had the temerity to apply for Higher National Diploma HND admission in the same institution using the forged ND results. Even more alarming, others forged both ND and HND results and had the guts to apply for the collection of original certificates for the same fabricated results”.

“We are pleased to inform the public that four suspects involved in the forgery of statements of result were apprehended during registration. They have been handed over to our security unit, whose investigation led to the unmasking of the broader syndicate behind this academic fraud”.

“In another discovery, a staff member in the Exams and Records unit already under disciplinary review had in his possession 30 forged Statements of Result bearing different names and programmes. Security operatives also recovered several fake official stamps, stamp pads and admission letters bearing different names and programmes from his residence”.

While reiterating its uncompromising zero-tolerance policy for academic fraud and unethical conduct, the Rector emphasized that any staff member, student, or external collaborator found culpable will face the full wrath of the law and institutional disciplinary measures.

“We shall not relent in our effort to expose and eliminate all forms of misconduct that is capable of denting hard earned reputation of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja.

“All individuals involved in this forgery scandal will be immediately handed over to the Police for further investigation and diligent prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others.”

He again assured the public, other stakeholders and the Polytechnic community that its quality assurance measures and security mechanisms remain fully active and uncompromised, insisting that the institution will not relent in its efforts to protect its integrity and reputation.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi on Wednesday, 29th October, 2025 submitted reports on the Ekiti All Progressives Congress Governorship (APC) Governorship Primary at the party’s National Secretariat.

Governor Ododo who served as Chairman of the Ekiti State All Progressives Congress Governorship Primary Committee made the presentation at a brief ceremony.

Governor Ododo at the ceremony which marked a key step in the party’s electoral process, expressed gratitude to the party’s leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust placed in him and his committee.

He emphasized that the primary was conducted transparently, adhering to all legal and procedural requirements, which ensured a smooth and hitch-free exercise.

“The Consensus Mode of Primary adopted by our party is the most peaceful method of selecting candidates,” Governor Ododo stated, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation within the party.

Receiving the report on behalf of the party’s leadership, the Deputy National Organizing Secretary, Dr. Chidi Duru commended Governor Ododo for his exemplary handling of the primary.

“You are undoubtedly one of our best Governors, and your ability to deliver on assignments is commendable,” he remarked.

Dr. Duru also noted that the party would continue to rely on the Governor for future tasks, reinforcing the commitment to peaceful candidate nominations.

The Deputy National Organizing Secretary described the Consensus Mode of Primary as a novel approach, particularly in the context of selecting a governorship candidate, and reiterated the party’s dedication to maintaining this peaceful process.

Following the report submission, Governor Ododo addressed the press, reiterating his appreciation for the confidence shown in him by the President and the National Chairman of the party.

Earlier in the day, Governor Ododo also visited the National Assembly, where he met with Kogi State Senators to garner support for the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu.

This submission and the subsequent discussions underscore the APC’s commitment to a cohesive and strategic approach as it prepares for upcoming electoral challenges.

The Kogi State Government through the Ministry of Livestock Development has taken another bold step towards transforming the livestock sector by organizing a sensitization workshop and officially launching the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS), a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing livestock management, monitoring, and productivity.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, Commissioner for Livestock Development, reaffirmed that the launch demonstrates Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the livestock value chain — a critical pillar of food security, job creation, and rural economic growth in Kogi State.

Dr. Bolarin described the establishment of the State Ministry of Livestock Development as “a step in the right direction,” emphasizing the government’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure effective livestock registration, identification, and management across all parts of the state.

According to him, “The NAITS initiative is designed to guarantee effective identification, registration, and traceability of all livestock nationwide.

This technology-driven approach will improve productivity, support data-based planning, and address recurring challenges such as cattle rustling, livestock theft, and transboundary animal diseases that have long hindered sectoral growth.”

He further explained that livestock farming remains vital to rural livelihoods and food security, noting that the introduction of NAITS will help authorities track animal movements, monitor animal health, and promote trade transparency — thereby building confidence among farmers, herders, and consumers.

Dr. Bolarin commended the visionary leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his continued support toward livestock transformation and appreciated the partnership of the Kogi L-PRES Coordinating Office, development partners, and field officers in implementing the initiative.

He added that the sensitization workshop was organized to deepen stakeholders’ understanding of modern livestock production and management practices.

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, represented by Dr. Abdulkareem Durosinolorun, Director of Quality Assurance and Certification and NAITS Focal Person, explained that the initiative is part of the Federal Government’s National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP), implemented in collaboration with Megacorp Nigeria Limited.

He commended the State Government for being amongst the first to adopt the system, noting that it would enhance livestock productivity and traceability.

In his goodwill message, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Timothy Ojomah, reiterated that Governor Ododo’s administration remains firmly committed to prioritizing every aspect of agricultural development in the state.

Also speaking, the Kogi State Project Coordinator for the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project, Mr. Otaru Abdulkabir, described the NAITS launch as “a major milestone in the modernization and security of livestock production across Nigeria.”

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Director of Animal Husbandry Services, Mr. Isah Anate Jimoh, assured that the department is fully committed to the smooth implementation and sustainability of the programme across all 21 local government areas.

“We will continue to work closely with livestock associations, community leaders, and security agencies to ensure that every livestock owner participates in the registration and tagging process,” he said.

Partners present at the event included Mr. Uche Ononye, Chief Operating Officer of Megacorp Nigeria Limited; Mr. Chidike Ude of Megacorp; and Alhaji Umar Yusuf Damina, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

In another development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin has announced that the State Government is set to construct a Cattle Route Mega Gate with an attached 10-hectare withholding ranch to enhance livestock management, security, and documentation across the state.

He made this known while hosting the Chairman of the Livestock Dealers Association, Alhaji Mohammed Hassan Danbauchi, in his office.

According to the Commissioner, the proposed facility will serve as a central point for livestock tagging, health management, temporary ranching, and verification.

“We are building a gate and, immediately behind it, a 10-hectare ranch that will accommodate both pasture and crops,” he explained.

“There will be adequate water supply and necessary facilities. Any untagged livestock brought in will be registered and tagged on-site for a nominal fee, which will also help in tracking animals in case of theft.”

Dr. Bolarin further revealed that the Ministry will provide free vaccination services and allow animals to be slaughtered at designated abattoirs free of charge, while livestock owners will be able to access interest-free financial support through the NAIC.

Earlier, State MACBAN Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Danbauchi commended the Commissioner and his team for the successful implementation of NAITS in Kogi State, describing it as a significant step toward reducing cattle rustling and improving livestock trade security.

He recalled recent incidents of livestock theft that led to the loss of cattle and lives, stressing that the NAITS and proposed Cattle Route Gate would help prevent such occurrences.

He also revealed that the association has introduced a receipt and waybill system, now recognized as a by-law governing livestock movement and trade between major markets such as Okene, Kabba, Lokoja, and other cattle markets across the state.

Alhaji Danbauchi appealed to the government to provide additional security support to ensure the smooth operation and success of these initiatives.

In response, Dr. Bolarin welcomed the association’s collaboration and urged them to formalize their revenue processes through the Ministry for accountability and transparency.

“What you have proposed aligns perfectly with our vision,” he said. “Bring your official receipts for endorsement by the Ministry, and we will jointly determine the monthly remittance structure. Each cattle market should also nominate a representative for proper coordination.”

He commended the association for their proactive engagement and emphasized the need for continued dialogue between the Ministry and market stakeholders.

“I appreciate your constructive approach,” Dr. Bolarin said. “We can always schedule broader stakeholder meetings to discuss emerging issues and strengthen collaboration.”

The successful launch of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITS) and the proposed Cattle Route Mega Gate with a 10-hectare ranch, Kogi State under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is a demonstration of political will, decisive and innovative steps towards achieving a modern, secure, and sustainable livestock sector that empowers farmers, enhances food security, and drives rural development.