Newly matriculated degree students of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) and the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, have been warned against drug abuse, sexual harassment, cultism, cybercrime and other forms of social vices.
The warning was given by the Vice Chancellor of ATBU, Professor Ibrahim Garba, and the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Alhaji Sani Usman, in their separate remarks during the matriculation ceremony for 120 admitted students into the affiliated degree programmes of both institutions for the 2025/2026 academic session.
Speaking, Ibrahim Garba, who was represented by Professor Abubakar Sadiq Bappa, Chairman, Central Admission Screening Committee of ATBU, said both ATBU and the Polytechnic have a policy of zero tolerance for all forms of vices and anti-social behaviour.
He further warned that students who fail to conform to the rules and regulations governing their stay on campus would be shown the way out.
The VC added that their duty is not only to provide students with access to knowledge but also to help shape their character so they become responsible citizens.
He said, ‘The oath you have taken today is an indication of your readiness to abide by ATBU laws and statutes as well as a promise that you will conduct yourself with decorum during your stay in this institution.’
According to him, ‘As for your stay here, everything has been done possible to ensure an acceptable standard of educational facilities and welfare for your studies.’
‘You should therefore give the Polytechnic all the needed support to realise the vision and mission of both the Polytechnic and our University,’ said the VC.
Earlier, the Rector of the Polytechnic, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Dalhatu Sa’idu Abubakar, reiterated that any student found culpable of engaging in these vices would face appropriate disciplinary actions, including rustication, suspension or outright expulsion.
He urged students to demonstrate respect for constituted authority, including lecturers, administrative staff, and institutional regulations guiding their conduct.
The Rector said, ‘This institution is determined to maintain a peaceful, disciplined, and academically conducive environment for all.’
He added, ‘I encourage you to direct your energy towards purposeful academic engagement, apply yourselves diligently to your studies, and maintain regular attendance at lectures.’
‘You are also advised to participate actively in all academic activities and nurture values that will set you apart as worthy ambassadors of both Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University and the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi,’ he added.