Uproar in Auchi Polytechnic as Lecturer’s Promotion Defies Appraisal Reports

A fresh controversy has erupted at Auchi Polytechnic following the promotion of a Principal Lecturer to the rank of Chief Lecturer, despite reportedly failing three mandatory performance appraisals required under the institution’s regulations.

The development has sparked tension within the academic community, with multiple sources alleging that due process was compromised in favor of personal affiliations within the Rector’s circle.

At the center of the controversy is a lecturer recently appointed Chairman of the Staff Disciplinary Committee. Findings indicate that his promotion was approved against the recommendation of his Head of Department (HOD), who had opposed the move on professional grounds.

Insiders claim the lecturer’s close relationship with the Rector may have influenced both his elevation and the significant financial benefits attached to it. Notably, the promotion was backdated by eight years.

A letter dated December 15, 2025, addressed to the lecturer and signed on behalf of the Governing Council, confirmed the promotion. It stated that the Council approved his elevation from Principal Lecturer to Chief Lecturer on CONPCASS 9 Step 01, with an annual salary of ₦7,102,070.40, effective January 1, 2017. The letter further cited “hard work and dedication to duty” as justification for the advancement.

However, the decision has drawn widespread criticism, particularly in light of reports that the lecturer failed three separate appraisal assessments a key requirement for promotion under existing guidelines.

The situation has also raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest. The same HOD who opposed the promotion is reportedly now under scrutiny by the lecturer, who, as Chairman of the Staff Disciplinary Committee, is positioned to oversee disciplinary matters affecting staff including dissenting voices.

“This is a clear case of abuse of office and intimidation,” a senior staff member, who requested anonymity, alleged. “It sends a dangerous message about accountability and fairness within the system.”

Further deepening the controversy are allegations involving the institution’s Registrar, Mrs. Eshiotse F. I., who is said to be under scrutiny for allegedly providing misleading information to justify the exclusion of another lecturer from the promotion list.

Sources familiar with the Governing Council proceedings disclosed that the Registrar claimed the affected lecturer had previously received a written warning over misconduct, a claim used to support his omission. However, when the Council requested the document, no such letter could be produced.

This revelation has heightened concerns about administrative integrity and the credibility of the institution’s promotion process.

Staff members warn that if not urgently addressed, the growing controversy could erode confidence in the Polytechnic’s governance structure and significantly undermine staff morale.

Efforts to obtain official responses from the Rector and members of the Governing Council were unsuccessful as of press time.