By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has condemned the violent protest staged on Wednesday at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, by members of the Association of People Living with Disabilities (PWDs).
The protesters locked the university’s main gate and disrupted academic activities, alleging marginalisation in employment opportunities at the institution.
In a statement issued in Lokoja on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, dismissed the claims as “baseless,” insisting that CUSTECH had employed several qualified persons with disabilities in both academic and non-academic positions.
He cited examples including Rofiat Ozohu Ohize, serving as Technologist II in the Chemistry Department since May 20, 2024; Ahmed Rufai Omuya, appointed on January 11, 2024, as Assistant Executive Officer in the Registry Department; and Mustapha Obaje, who assumed duty as an Assistant Lecturer in the Technology Education Department on March 25, 2025.
“These appointments clearly demonstrate that CUSTECH continues to employ qualified persons with disabilities, based strictly on competence and merit,” Fanwo said.
He explained that recruitment into academic and administrative positions at the university, and across other institutions in the state, is merit-driven. According to him, vacancies are publicly advertised, PWDs have equal opportunities to apply, and those who meet the requirements are employed.
“The application process does not indicate disability status; it speaks only to qualifications and competence. This shows clearly that the institution does not discriminate in any form,” he added.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by PWDs, the Commissioner stressed that their claims of exclusion were unfounded. He said the government could not operate a quota system in academic recruitment where excellence and merit must prevail.
Fanwo also alleged political undertones in the protest, pointing to the violent conduct, use of expensive recording devices, and heavy media mobilisation.
“As the build-up to 2027 intensifies, it is not surprising that some politicians may attempt to exploit vulnerable groups to create crises and destabilise institutions,” he said.
The government commended the management and students of CUSTECH for their maturity and restraint, noting that their decision not to retaliate prevented what could have escalated into chaos.
Fanwo reaffirmed Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and service to all citizens, regardless of physical status. He urged the police and other security agencies to investigate the incident and take proactive measures to prevent a recurrence.
“While the government remains committed to inclusivity, we will not allow politically motivated disruptions to threaten the peace of our educational institutions,” he declared.
