Controversy Trails Removal Of Makinde From Federal Polytechnic Offa Board

By Tosin Olasunkanmi, Osogbo

Tension is mounting at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, following the sudden replacement of Rotimi Makinde as a member of the institution’s governing board—a move that has sparked backlash and raised questions over transparency and motives.

Makinde, a former lawmaker and outspoken figure within the board, has described his removal as “insulting,” alleging that his commitment to restoring peace at the institution has been disregarded.

Speaking to our reporter, he noted that his tenure was instrumental in stabilizing a campus previously plagued by recurring crises.

“This is insulting. I saw the appointment as a chance to serve. I was never absent for a minute and was at the forefront of peace efforts in a school once locked down over management-union conflict,” Makinde said

He added that he was tasked with leading an ad hoc committee to resolve the crisis, a responsibility he said he fulfilled with measurable results.

The circumstances surrounding his exit remain unclear. While some stakeholders believe it may have been a clerical error or administrative oversight from the Federal Ministry of Education, others suggest the move may have been influenced by elements within the polytechnic’s management due to alleged friction with Makinde.

Despite the lack of official explanation, the newly appointed board member has already been ceremoniously welcomed—a development that some observers say reflects an eagerness to shift the institution’s internal dynamics.

Makinde’s supporters argue that his removal is politically motivated and risks derailing the fragile progress the institution has made under his influence. They fear the loss of continuity and assert that the transition could reopen old wounds the board had worked hard to heal.

As the dust settles, attention is now turning to the new appointee—whether they will build upon Makinde’s reported achievements or usher in a new and potentially divisive direction.

The Federal Ministry of Education has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.