The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has called on former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to retract a statement he made regarding the Student Union Government (SUG) election at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
The organization has also warned that legal action may be taken if he fails to issue a public apology within seven working days.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday in Abuja, CPTA’s executive director, comrade Patrick Ogheneyero Jr., addressed a post made by Mr. Obi on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. In the post, Mr. Obi alleged that two students died and several others were injured during the July 5 SUG election at the institution.
Ogheneyero described the claim as inaccurate and concerning, particularly given Mr. Obi’s influence as a public figure.
“We believe the statement to be false and unverified. It has the potential to cause panic, misinform the public, and unfairly damage the reputation of the institution,” he said.
The group cited an official report from the institution’s Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Angela Egele, which confirmed that no fatalities or serious injuries occurred during the election. While the vote was declared inconclusive due to procedural issues, the event was said to have been conducted peacefully under the supervision of security personnel and independent observers.
The group expressed disappointment that the claim was made without consultation with the institution or verification from credible sources.
“We urge all public figures, especially those of national standing, to engage with facts and exercise responsibility in their public statements,” he added.
In addition to its demand for a retraction and apology, the group used the occasion to highlight developments at the Polytechnic under the leadership of Dr. Salisu Shehu Umar, who assumed office as Rector in February 2022.
The group listed several achievements during his tenure, including:”Construction of an asphalt road network within the campus, Development of new office blocks and classrooms, Completion of a 250-seat lecture theatre for the School of Engineering, Renovation and modernization of the central library and ICT center.”
“Dr. Umar has shown commitment to institutional growth and student welfare. These achievements speak to a vision of progress,” he said.
The group reaffirmed its support for the Polytechnic’s current administration and called on political and public actors to avoid statements that could undermine trust in public institutions.
