The Chairman of The Polytechnic, Ibadan (TPI) Stakeholders Forum, Ajakpofo Andrew, has strongly faulted recent comments credited to Chief Ahmed Ajibola, popularly known as General H, describing them as “misinformed” and harmful to the reputation of the institution.
Chief Ajibola was reported to have claimed that only Lead City University and the University of Ibadan were recognized institutions in Oyo State, a remark that excluded The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and other accredited schools in the state.
Reacting in a statement, Andrew emphasized that The Polytechnic, Ibadan, remains one of Nigeria’s most reputable higher institutions of learning with over five decades of academic excellence.
He stressed that the institution is fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and has consistently produced graduates making remarkable contributions across diverse fields.
“Chief Ajibola’s statement is not only misleading but also undermines the hard work of our staff, students, and alumni. Such comments can discourage prospective students and damage the integrity of an institution that has stood as a beacon of innovation and quality education for decades,” Andrew said.
The TPI chairman further called on alumni, students, and members of the public to rally in solidarity with the institution. He urged stakeholders to hold Chief Ajibola accountable by demanding a retraction and a public apology for the remarks.
In a more direct response, the forum also encouraged the community to reconsider patronizing businesses owned by Chief Ajibola, including Copacapana Nightclub and the Copacapana Group of Companies, as a show of commitment to defending the Polytechnic’s legacy.
Concluding his remarks, Andrew reaffirmed the institution’s standing as a recognized centre of learning and vowed that stakeholders would not allow “misinformation and disparaging comments to go unchallenged.”
“The Polytechnic, Ibadan, will continue to thrive and maintain its position as a leading institution of higher learning in Nigeria,” he said.