The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, has stated that the video circulating on the social media, which falsely alleges that the Rector of the institution, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, had previously held the position of "South East Polytechnics Director of TETFund" which is non-existent, and further insinuates that she diverted funds from TETFund, is not only false but also malicious and baseless.
The institution, in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Mr. Chijioke Ibeziako, described the accusations as entirely unfounded and lacking in any factual basis.
The statement reads in part, "The video falsely alleges that the Rector previously held the position of "South East Polytechnics Director of TETFund" which is non-existent and further insinuates that she diverted funds from TETFund.
"To set the records straight and prevent the public from being misled by these deliberate falsehoods, the management of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, states as follows:
"That Dr. Awuzie was never the "South East Polytechnics Director of TETFund," as no such office exists.
"That the claim that she diverted TETFund money is both laughable and a fabrication; as Dr. Awuzie was never a signatory to any TETFund account, and had no authority to approve disbursement of funds.
"That her actual role in TETFund was a Director and Desk Officer in charge of TETFund projects at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, and not the South East as no such office exists in the South East; and that her responsibility was strictly to monitor and ensure that all projects were executed according to specified standards and timelines. She had no financial control or access to any funds whatsoever.
"Fourthly, there are no records whether from TETFund, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, or any other credible authority indicating that any TETFund money went missing under her watch. Infact, all TETFund projects executed at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, up to 2024, were successfully completed and accounted for.
"That throughout her meritorious career of over 19 years as a lecturer, rising to the rank of Chief Lecturer, Dr. Awuzie has never been queried for any wrongdoing. Her emergence as Rector followed a transparent and competitive selection process, in full compliance with established guidelines. There was no secrecy or foul play in her appointment.
"That the attempt to discredit Dr. Awuzie by questioning her ability to have modest family residence is both illogical and defamatory. Like any diligent professional with years of service, and longstanding family support, it is not out of place for her family to own property before her appointment.
"These malicious accusations are nothing but cheap blackmail, distractions and mischief aimed at tarnishing her reputation. However, no reasonable person will be swayed by such baseless claims. Since her assumption of office, the Polytechnic community has been in a mood of excitement, recognizing her appointment as a step towards progress.
"The public is hereby urged to disregard these false allegations, as they hold no grounds in fact or evidence."