The management of Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, has dismissed allegations of a N500 million accreditation fraud, describing the claims as misleading and damaging to the institution's reputation.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit, Olayinka Iroye, the polytechnic stressed that the figure in question was not an expenditure but a proposed budget developed in line with due process.

Iroye clarified that the institution is scheduled to undergo accreditation for 61 academic programmes contrary to the 21 programmes cited by a media outlet (not The Nation).

He explained: "The N500 million in question was only a proposed budget, collated by the Director of Academic Planning at the request of Management for presentation to the Governing Council, as required by due process."

According to Iroye, initial cost projections from departments for the upcoming accreditation exercise amounted to approximately N900 million. However, following a thorough review aimed at ensuring fiscal responsibility, the figure was prudently reduced to about N500 million without undermining the quality or standards required.

The management reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence in all administrative and academic processes.

He said of the N500m, over N300 million had been earmarked for the purchase of modern, high-quality equipment spread across all academic departments.

"These include Engineering Technology, Applied Sciences, Food Technology, Mass Communication, Computer Science Technology, Management Studies and other relevant fields. This strategic investment will not only meet the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) accreditation requirements, but will also strengthen the polytechnic's teaching, learning and research capabilities for years to come."

He continued: "Statutory accreditation fees will be fully paid as mandated by the NBTE. The remaining funds will cover essential logistics, such as transportation, hotel accommodation, feeding, and other necessary arrangements for the 85 NBTE-appointed Resource Persons who will be visiting the Polytechnic to conduct the rigorous accreditation exercise.

"When these figures are carefully broken down, it becomes evident that the budget is neither excessive nor wasteful. On the contrary, it reflects a balanced, well-considered, and responsible approach to meeting accreditation needs while ensuring the judicious use of public resources.

"We remain focused on our mandate of producing skilled, competent and morally upright graduates, and will not be distracted by unfounded allegations."

The businessman also acknowledged the monarch's pivotal role in promoting harmony among diverse groups in Upenmen, fostering an environment where development projects and community-driven initiatives had thrived.

"Oba Ogunmolasuyi's reign has been a blessing to Upenmen and beyond. His ability to unite people and champion progress is a legacy that will endure."

Eleduma prayed for the monarch's continued good health, divine wisdom and strength to lead Upenmen to greater heights, and expressed optimism that Olupenmen's reign would continue to inspire positive transformation and bring prosperity to the community for many years to come.

The businessman called on Upenmen indigenes at home and in the diaspora to support their traditional ruler and back his vision for a more prosperous and united community.