By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
An alumnus of Kaduna Polytechnic, Okpani Austine Agbo Emmanuel, has defended a student who raised concerns over the alleged overzealous enforcement of the institution’s dress code, describing her action as courageous and beneficial to the school community.Emmanuel, a Mass Communication graduate of the institution, said in a statement on Saturday that the student helped bring public attention to an issue that may have affected others who were unable or unwilling to speak out. The incident gained attention after a video circulated on social media on March 12, 2026.
According to him, public expression of grievances is a legitimate channel in a democratic society for drawing attention to perceived injustices and advocating reforms. “By bringing the matter to public attention, the student has opened the door for necessary reflection on how such policies are enforced within an institution of repute like Kaduna Polytechnic,” he said. Emmanuel urged the management of the institution to ensure transparency in handling the matter, including making public the outcome of any disciplinary action taken against staff involved.
He also cautioned against any action that could be interpreted as victimising students connected to the incident, noting that such steps could escalate tensions. Meanwhile, the management of Kaduna Polytechnic confirmed that it has begun investigating the incident captured in the viral video involving students of the College of Business and Management Studies (CBMS).
In a statement dated March 12, 2026, and signed by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Protocol, Godwin B. Ayegba, the institution said the attire worn by the affected students appeared “moderate and appropriate,” adding that they should not have been barred from attending lectures on that basis. The management noted that while the polytechnic maintains a dress code policy aimed at promoting decency and professionalism, enforcement must remain within approved guidelines and should not be applied arbitrarily.
It said the ongoing investigation would determine any lapses and that appropriate measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence. Students were also advised to adhere to the institution’s dress code and channel complaints through official communication channels.
