CPTA to Peter Obi: Retract False Statement on Auchi Polytechnic or Face Lawsuit
The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has issued a stern demand for a public apology from former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, over what it described as “false and inflammatory” claims regarding the recent Student Union Government (SUG) election at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
At a press conference held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, CPTA condemned Obi’s social media assertion that two students lost their lives and several others were injured during the exercise, describing the statement as “irresponsible, unfounded, and capable of inciting public unrest.”
CPTA Executive Director, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., who addressed journalists at the event, said the claim amounted to disinformation and a dangerous attempt to undermine the reputation of the institution and its leadership.
“Contrary to Mr. Obi’s claims, no student died or sustained serious injuries during the election. The process, though competitive, was conducted under tight security and institutional oversight. The management later declared it inconclusive due to observed irregularities, a move aimed at preserving peace on campus,” Ogheneyero stated.
He cited the official statement from the school’s Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Angela Egele, which clarified that while there were tensions, no fatalities or critical injuries occurred.
The group accused Mr. Obi of failing to verify his claims with the institution’s authorities, law enforcement, or credible eyewitnesses, warning that such conduct falls short of the ethical expectations of any democratic leader.
“We hereby demand an immediate public retraction and apology from Mr. Peter Obi on his X (formerly Twitter) handle to the management, staff, and students of Auchi Polytechnic for the reputational damage caused. Failure to comply within seven working days will leave us no choice but to pursue legal redress in court for defamation and incitement,” CPTA warned.
While emphasizing the importance of free speech, the organization stressed that public figures must exercise such freedoms with truth, restraint, and a sense of national responsibility, especially on sensitive matters involving youths and academic institutions.
In contrast to Obi’s remarks, CPTA commended the leadership of the Rector of Auchi Polytechnic, Dr. Salisu Shehu Umar, for what it called “giant strides” in transforming the institution since his appointment in February 2022.
Listing a series of development projects, the organization highlighted improvements in infrastructure, student welfare, and academic facilities under Dr. Umar’s administration. These include the construction of internal asphalt roads, new lecture theaters, ICT centers, renovated libraries, a 2,000-seat multipurpose hall, and several sports and entrepreneurship initiatives.
“Dr. Umar’s achievements reflect a comprehensive and inclusive model of development. His leadership is a shining example of what visionary and accountable administration can achieve in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector,” Ogheneyero added.
CPTA called on the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to recognize and support the ongoing transformation at Auchi Polytechnic.
The organization reaffirmed its full backing of Dr. Umar, noting that his legacy was being written not only in physical structures but in empowered students and transformed systems.
