The Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, has rejected the claims made by former presidential candidate Peter Obi regarding the alleged deaths of two students during the violence that disrupted the student union election last Saturday.
Obi had posted on his X handle (formerly Twitter) alleging that the unrest during the election resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to several others.
However, in a statement on Tuesday, the polytechnic described Obi’s claims as false, misleading, and baseless.
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that some students sustained injuries after violence broke out during the student union government elections.
In a viral video circulated on Sunday, students were seen scaling the school fence as gunfire echoed in the background.
The video also showed smoke at the scene, suggesting tear gas was used, while some youths wielded knives to scare others away.
Responding to Obi’s claims, the institution’s Director of Public Relations, Angela Egele, said security operatives were adequately present during the election.
“The attention of the management of Auchi Polytechnic has been drawn to a statement credited to Mr. Peter Obi, wherein he alleged that the recently held Student Union Government (SUG) elections at the institution resulted in the death of two students and injuries to several others due to gunfire,” she said.
Quoting Obi’s post, the statement noted, “I watched the heartbreaking video that showed students in Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State running for their lives as they WERE BEING SHOT AT during their student election yesterday, which left 2 students dead and several injured…”
Egele denied the allegations, stating, “The Management categorically states that these claims are false, misleading, and completely unfounded.
“For the avoidance of doubt, no student was shot, injured, or killed during the electoral process, which was subsequently declared inconclusive due to observed irregularities.”
She explained that the election was monitored by multiple security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence Corps, State Security Service, Mobile Police, and local vigilante groups.
The institution urged the public to disregard Obi’s statement.
“Subsequently, we urge the general public, stakeholders, and members of the press to disregard this misinformation.
“Auchi Polytechnic remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.”