Kogi State Government has strongly condemned a protest by members of the Association of People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, describing the demonstration as violent and politically motivated.

‎In a statement issued in Lokoja on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, rejected the allegations, describing them as “baseless.”

‎The protesters had alleged that the institution sidelined PWDs in employment opportunities.

‎He insisted that CUSTECH has consistently employed qualified persons with disabilities in both academic and non-academic roles.

‎“The application process does not indicate disability status; it is based on qualifications and competence,” he stressed.

‎“This shows clearly that the institution does not discriminate in any form.” He further noted that vacancies are always publicly advertised, with PWDs given equal opportunity to apply.

‎While acknowledging the challenges faced by PWDs in society, the Commissioner said their claims of exclusion in this case were unfounded.

‎Commending CUSTECH’s management and students for maintaining calm during the unrest, Fanwo praised their restraint in the face of provocation.

‎He reiterated Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity, while also urging security agencies to investigate the incident and prevent politically-inspired disruptions in the state’s educational institutions.

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