The Bayelsa State Polytechnic, Aleibiri, has a new Acting Rector following the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past Rector, Dr. Wisdom Clinton Soreh.
The development comes after weeks of tension within the institution, as academic and non-academic staff mounted pressure on the outgoing Rector to relinquish office upon the completion of his tenure.
The staff had reportedly protested over alleged plans by Dr. Soreh to extend his stay in office beyond the approved tenure.
Sources told our correspondent that lecturers took their grievances to the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, on Tuesday. The Commissioner was said to have directed the outgoing Rector to hand over the affairs of the institution to the Deputy Rector in charge of academics.
It was further gathered that Governor Douye Diri approved the directive, paving the way for a smooth transition of leadership at the institution.
Confirming the development in a statement, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Sarah Alamene, said Dr. Soreh formally handed over to the former Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. Mrs. Eremasi Yaguo Ikele, who now serves as the Acting Rector of the Polytechnic.
“Today, June 24, 2026, the Bayelsa State Polytechnic, Aleibiri, witnessed a successful transition of leadership. The outgoing Rector, Dr. Wisdom Clinton Soreh, has officially handed over to the former Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. Mrs. Eremasi Yaguo Ikele, as the new Acting Rector of the institution,” the statement read.
According to the statement, Dr. Yaguo’s emergence followed the successful completion of Dr. Soreh’s tenure after years of service and contributions to the growth of the institution.
The Polytechnic community expressed confidence in the capacity, experience and leadership qualities of the new Acting Rector, while praying for wisdom, strength and vision as she assumes office.
The institution also commended Dr. Soreh for his dedication and achievements during his tenure, noting that his leadership brought significant growth and left a lasting impact on the Polytechnic.
Dr. Mrs. Eremasi Yaguo Ikele’s appointment marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first female Rector of Bayelsa State Polytechnic, Aleibiri.