A Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic lecturer in Port Harcourt, Solomon Tamunotonye, has voiced concerns over the institutionโs management withholding his salaries for a staggering 20 months.
The polytechnicโs management had suspended Tamunotonye for three months, accusing him of โharassment and exploitationโ of a 200-level female student named Blessing Audu.
Although a committee was set up to investigate these allegations, Tamunotonye claims he was asked to resume work and submit a written apology without being informed of the committeeโs findings.
He believes the allegations are false and has refused to apologise, leading to the continued withholding of his salary.
Editorial:
The situation at the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic raises several pressing concerns. Firstly, the transparency and fairness of internal investigations within educational institutions are questioned.
If an individual is accused of a severe offence, the investigative process must be transparent, and the accused must be aware of the findings.
Withholding salaries for an extended period without clear justification is not only a breach of trust but can also have severe financial and psychological impacts on the affected individual.
Moreover, the broader issue of how educational institutions handle misconduct allegations must be addressed. While itโs essential to protect students and ensure their safety, itโs equally crucial to ensure that the rights of the accused are not trampled upon.
Institutions must balance protecting their students and ensuring their staff are treated fairly and justly.
Did You Know?
- Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic is named after Captain Elechi Amadi, a renowned Nigerian writer and playwright.
- Harassment allegations in educational institutions can have long-lasting impacts on both the accused and the accuser, affecting their professional and personal lives.
- The Rivers State Government funds and oversees many educational institutions within its jurisdiction.
- Withholding salaries for extended periods can lead to severe financial hardships, pushing individuals into debt or forcing them to seek alternative employment.
- Transparent internal investigations are crucial in ensuring that justice is served and that all parties involved are treated fairly.
