Tension at Kwara Polytechnic as Security Operatives Clash With Students Over NYSC Camp
Violence broke out on Monday at the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, following a clash between protesting students and security operatives deployed to the institution.
The incident followed the decision of Kwara polytechnic management to shut down academic activities for three weeks to enable the use of school facilities for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp.
TheConscience News correspondent who was at the scene reported that students became agitated after management announced a compulsory break from January 19 to February 10, 2026, a move many students said would disrupt their academic calendar ahead of examinations scheduled to begin on February 16.
A notice issued by the institution and signed by Halimat Garba, Deputy Registrar, Information Division, on behalf of the Acting Registrar, stated that all students were to vacate the campus during the period.
Angry students reportedly mobilised to protest the decision, converging at the main gate of the institution on Monday afternoon. Eyewitnesses said security operatives invited by school authorities attempted to disperse the protesters, leading to confrontations.
Videos seen by TheConscience News showed security operatives firing tear gas canisters as students scampered for safety, while another clip captured the school gate locked.
Another video seen showed a student leader identified as a NANS official condemning alleged police brutality and calling on the Governor to intervene urgently.
Sources within the campus alleged that officials of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) ordered the closure of the gates to prevent authorities from handing over the school facilities for use as an NYSC orientation camp.
Students who spoke to TheConscience News insisted that both the SUG and the students were opposed to the use of the institution for the NYSC camp, arguing that academic activities should not be sacrificed for the programme.
As of the time of filing this report, there were no confirmed reports of injuries or arrests. The management of the polytechnic and security agencies are yet to issue official statements on the incident.
More details later.
