Every Nation Polytechnic Halts Students' Union Elections Due to Campus Invasion and Security Issues
The anticipated Students' Union elections at Every Nation Polytechnic have been abruptly suspended until further notice, following a concerning incident of campus invasion by a group donned in black attire.
In response to this security breach and guidance from law enforcement, the administration has taken the decisive step to suspend all Students' Union activities. Principal Christian Johnson attributed the suspension to the infiltration by a group claiming allegiance to a presidential candidate, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the situation.
The intrusion, which occurred on the campus grounds, involved individuals purportedly supporting a presidential candidate participating in the upcoming SU Elections. Principal Johnson emphasized that the directive to suspend these activities was received from law enforcement, specifically from the Inspector General of Police, necessitating a postponement of all Students' Union Election activities nationwide.
The incident disrupted what was anticipated as a spirited electoral contest among four candidates—Paul Kamara, Gabriel Sellu, Mohamed Massaquoi, and Bishop Tamba Jimmy vying for the presidency within the Student Union Government. The college had recently organized a presidential debate and manifesto presentation, followed by the official commencement of campaigns, with the elections originally slated for Monday, 11th December 2023.
Reassuring students of their safety, the administration has urged them to resume their regular academic schedules while promising a thorough investigation into the breach. Principal Johnson reiterated the institution's staunch stance against any form of cultism, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy and a commitment to upholding the institution's foundational principles.
The altercation between the campus administration and the unidentified intruders claiming to represent "The National Students' Body" led to a standoff that necessitated police intervention. Riot police were called in to restore order after the group adamantly refused to vacate the premises despite repeated requests from senior academic staff.
Every Nation Polytechnic, under the ownership of New Harvest Ministries led by Rev Shodankeh Johnson, has made significant strides in its development, culminating in the imminent opening of a state-of-the-art facility equipped with advanced amenities. Despite this setback, the institution remains committed to fostering a conducive learning environment for its diverse student body.
The college administration has pledged to uphold its progress and deter any disruptive elements aiming to undermine the institution's transformational journey. Investigations into the breach are ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying and holding accountable those responsible for the intrusion and subsequent disruption of campus activities.