Abia Poly Rector Accused of Intimidation and Financial Mismanagement | #NwokeukwuMascot

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New Abia Poly Rector Accused of Intimidation and Financial Recklessness | #NwokeukwuMascot

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A climate of fear has descended upon Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, as allegations of intimidation and financial impropriety are leveled against the institution's newly appointed Rector, Dr. Chris Kalu Okoro. According to sources within the polytechnic, both staff and students now live in constant apprehension due to the presence of police officers and thugs allegedly engaged by Dr. Okoro.

Reports from the polytechnic suggest that the Rector has expended over N150 million on questionable projects with inflated costs within his first six months in office. This spending spree comes despite the institution owing its workers 34 months of salary arrears. The Rector's first official act reportedly involved the sale of iron materials, old refrigerators, and computer containers, with the proceeds allegedly unaccounted for.

Dr. Okoro, who was appointed by Governor Alex Otti a few months ago, is said to maintain a security entourage comprising eight police officers and ten thugs. This security detail accompanies him everywhere, even to classrooms during lectures and Academic Board meetings. The intimidating presence of these men has reportedly stifled open discussion among board members and caused widespread fear among students.

A student from the Department of Science Laboratory Technology (SLT), who spoke on the condition of anonymity, described the atmosphere as tense whenever the Rector visits their classroom with his security detail. The student also criticized Dr. Okoro's teaching methods, noting that the Rector, an Electrical/Electronics Engineer, struggles to teach SLT courses effectively.

Another student, from the Department of Civil Engineering, expressed frustration over the Rector's tendency to teach outdated course content while flanked by heavily armed security personnel. "It feels like we are in a war zone," the student lamented. "Staff and students are now living in fear."

Senior lecturers and other polytechnic workers have also raised concerns about Dr. Okoro's qualifications and experience. They question how Governor Otti could appoint someone they describe as "highly inexperienced" to such a critical role. Dr. Okoro, who was a Lecturer II at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, for 10 years, allegedly lacks the requisite experience, having never served in a leadership role such as Head of Department or Dean of Faculty.

The Rector is further accused of financial mismanagement, including the employment of over 50 new lecturers and administrative staff since his appointment in May 2024. Critics argue that these appointments are unnecessary and financially burdensome for an institution already struggling to survive. They also allege that Dr. Okoro bypassed due process in awarding contracts, such as a N25 million deal to print examination booklets, which reportedly resulted in substandard materials.

Concerns about financial recklessness extend to the refurbishment of the Rector’s lodge, where Dr. Okoro is said to have spent over N60 million on renovations. This follows a similar refurbishment carried out by the previous Rector for a fraction of the cost just two months prior.

Moreover, Dr. Okoro is accused of lavish spending on personal comfort, including spending over N20 million on hotel accommodations and meals in less than three months. When scrutiny over his expenditures increased, he reportedly moved to another hotel to deflect attention.

The allegations also include the sale of scrap materials worth over N40 million, which allegedly occurred on non-working days and involved items owned by businesses operating on the campus.

As the situation at Abia State Polytechnic continues to unfold, many are left questioning the rationale behind Dr. Okoro's appointment and the future of the institution under his leadership. The polytechnic, which has served as a cornerstone of education in the region for over 30 years, now faces an uncertain future amid these troubling developments.

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