Thousands of new students of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) have been warned against cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime and other social vices that could jeopardise their academic pursuits and future careers.
The warning came during the institution’s orientation for fresh students, where the Lagos State Security Trust Fund’s Campaign Against Crime, Cultism and Other Vices (LSSTF-CACCOV) sensitised students on the need to make responsible choices.
Coordinator, LSSTF-CACCOV, Dr. Moses Oladimeji, urged the students to avoid negative influences and remain focused on their academic and personal development.
He cautioned against cultism and criminal associations, recalling the story of a former student whose life was allegedly cut short after becoming involved in cult activities.
Oladimeji warned that criminal groups often lure young people with promises of protection, influence and quick wealth, stressing that such paths frequently end in tragedy.
“We are here to protect you from crime and cultism. I urge you to shun cultism, drug abuse, rape, cybercrime and every vice capable of destroying your destiny,” he said.
To encourage the students, Oladimeji highlighted the success story of the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, an alumnus of YABATECH.
According to him, Ogunsan rose from a humble background through discipline, hard work and commitment to education, eventually becoming a successful entrepreneur and public servant.
“The next Ayodele Ogunsan can emerge from this hall. Your future is bright, but you must not allow cultism, drug abuse or criminal gangs to derail your aspirations,” he told the students.
Earlier, the Dean of Students Affairs, Alhaji Alaba Olalekan, said the orientation was designed to help students adapt to their new environment and understand the responsibilities that come with tertiary education.
He reiterated the institution’s zero-tolerance policy on cultism, drug abuse and other forms of misconduct.
“Students need to know where to seek help and understand the dangers inherent in the freedom they now enjoy. These vices destroy lives and futures,” he said.
Also, President, YABATECH Alumni Association, Builder Yemi Osibajo, commended the partnership between the institution and LSSTF-CACCOV in educating students on the dangers of cultism and crime.
He attributed the growing involvement of youths in criminal activities to peer pressure and the pursuit of extravagant lifestyles, urging the students to remain focused on the purpose of their admission.
“You were brought here to acquire education and become useful to your family and society. Do not make yourself vulnerable to those who seek to lure you into destructive activities,” he advised.
Osibajo described Ogunsan’s achievements as evidence of YABATECH’s tradition of producing outstanding graduates and a testament to the rewards of discipline, focus and perseverance.
The orientation programme formed part of efforts by YABATECH and LSSTF-CACCOV to promote safety, responsible conduct and academic excellence among students while discouraging behaviours that could undermine their future aspirations.
