Bonny Graduates Forum, Stakeholders Mediate to Douse Tension at FPOG

The Bonny Graduates Forum (BGF), alongside other stakeholders have intervened to calm brewing tensions over the suspended Student Union Government (SUG) elections at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas (FPOG) Bonny in Rivers State.  

Trouble ensued at the Polytechnic on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 when the National Union of Bonny Students (NUBS) directed its members not to participate in the SUG elections due to disagreements with the management of the institution.

In a statement on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, the BGF said its President, Jude Pepple, alongside other key stakeholders met with the Rector of the FPOG, Dr Victor Okolobah to discuss ways to resolve the crisis arising from the botched student union polls.   

The stakeholders include the National President of NUBS, Precious Jumbo, a former Senior Special Assistant on Students Affairs, Godswill Lawson-Jumbo, and former National President of the National Union of Ijaw Students, Victor Ibaningo.  

The BGF stated that the meeting resolved that both the National Union of Bonny Students (NUBS) and the FPOG management agreed to make concessions towards the amicable resolution of the controversial issues that led to the escalation of tensions.

According to the statement, the Rector demonstrated leadership in the course of the discussions, expressing his readiness work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that academic activities remain undisturbed.

The BGF commended the crisis management approach of the Rector and his management team, assuring that the agreed actions would be followed through to restore confidence and protect the image of the institution.

The Forum caution members of the Bonny Community, especially students and youth leaders, to avoid hasty statements that could damage the reputation of institutions and leadership, encouraging dialogue, patience, and responsible communication as the proper tools for resolving disputes.

The BGF said it remains committed to promoting peace, accountability, and progress in Bonny and will continue to support initiatives that safeguard the integrity of our schools and empower our young people.