By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The management of Osun State College of Technology (OSCOTECH), Esa-Oke, has dismissed claims that Governor Ademola Adeleke appointed his nephew as the Deputy Rector of the institution, describing the allegations as baseless and misleading.

Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Friday, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abdulfatai Tijani, clarified that the polytechnic system does not permit the appointment of Deputy Rectors, as the position is determined through an electoral process by members of the academic community.

“The writer is clearly not abreast of the workings of the academic system. In polytechnics, Deputy Rectors are elected by academic staff and not appointed. The story is far from the truth. Moreover, the claim that Alhaji S.A. Adewumi is the governor’s nephew is entirely false. They are not related in any way. I am not speaking in defence of anyone; I am simply stating the facts,” he said.

Tijani also emphasised the need for accuracy in news reporting, urging journalists to verify facts before publication.

“The pen is powerful, and anyone writing must cross-check facts on the ground before going to press,” he added.

On ongoing developments in the institution, Tijani revealed that the construction of the new Mass Communication Department structure is nearing completion. He reiterated the college’s commitment to fostering a stronger relationship with the media, which, he said, necessitated his familiarisation visit to the Correspondents’ Chapel.

“The Mass Communication Department’s new building is almost completed, and the school is committed to strengthening its relationship with the media beyond what currently exists,” he stated.

Addressing the issue of indecent dressing among female students, the PRO affirmed that disciplinary measures had been put in place for offenders.

“The school management frowns on indecent dressing, and students are complying with the institution’s rules and regulations,” he said.

On efforts to curb secret cult activities within tertiary institutions, Tijani disclosed that OSCOTECH has stringent measures in place to prevent cultism, with security personnel maintaining constant surveillance to check any form of misconduct.

He urged parents to closely monitor their children’s behaviour, stressing that parental guidance remains crucial in curbing social vices in campuses and tertiary institutions.