Delta Govt Overrules Suspension of Ogwashi-Uku Polytechnic Rector Prof. Emmanuel Achuenu

..Reinstated by Commissioner for Higher Education 

Delta State Government has officially reinstated the suspended Rector of the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, Professor Emmanuel Achuenu, overturning an earlier decision by the institution’s Governing Council to suspend him for alleged misconduct.

The reinstatement was confirmed in a directive issued by the State Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Nyerhovwo Tonukari, who cited procedural irregularities and lack of substantial justification as reasons for the government’s decision.

The Ministry found no compelling grounds to uphold the suspension,” the Commissioner stated, directing Prof. Achuenu to resume office immediately.

Prof. Achuenu was suspended for six months, effective July 4, 2025, on allegations of gross misconduct and financial impropriety, as claimed by the Governing Council Chairman, Hon. Paul Adingwupu. The Council also accused the Rector of failing to appear before its disciplinary panel and directed him to hand over all school property to the Deputy Rector.

However, following a thorough review by the Ministry of Higher Education, it was concluded that the suspension process did not align with statutory procedures outlined in the law governing the polytechnic.

In his communication, Prof. Tonukari emphasized the importance of adhering to legal and institutional protocols, particularly when dealing with principal officers of state-owned institutions.

While the Ministry appreciates the Council's role in promoting discipline and oversight, disciplinary actions must be rooted in fairness, transparency, and legality, he noted.

The Commissioner referenced Part IV, Section 17(1) of the law establishing Delta State Polytechnic, which recognizes the Rector’s hierarchical precedence just below the Visitor (the Governor) and the Chairman of Council, except under specific academic circumstances.

This provision clearly outlines the proper chain of command and the scope of authority. Actions affecting the Rector must be handled with full respect to the law,

Since assuming office, Prof. Achuenu has recorded notable achievements that have elevated the standing of the polytechnic:

* Full accreditation and approval of all academic programmes
* Introduction of 25+ new programmes in the past three years
* Establishment of a solar energy laboratory and training initiatives
* Launch of a Skills Development Centre
* Construction and furnishing of a 300-capacity lecture hall funded through internally generated revenue

The Ministry called on all staff, management, and stakeholders at the polytechnic to embrace unity and professionalism, warning against actions that could derail the institution’s progress or undermine its stability.

The state government remains committed to accountability, excellence, and the smooth administration of all tertiary institutions in Delta State, Prof. Tonukari reaffirmed.

The reinstatement of Prof. Achuenu is expected to restore calm and provide renewed direction for the institution as it continues its academic and developmental growth.