It is located in the Orumba North Local Government of Anambra State at Oko town. As a result of the patronage, resourcefulness, and result-oriented leadership of its pioneer chairman, a former Executive Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, the Oko Progressive Union (OPU) spawned what eventually became the polytechnic.
In 1979, the Anambra State Government approved the institution as a College of Arts and Science for the preparation of candidates for the GCE examination at both the ordinary and advanced levels.
In 1980, the institution was upgraded to the College of Arts, Science, and Technology, making it more attractive to young school leavers who sought the higher certificate it offered.
Through Edict No. 12 of 1985, published as a supplement to the Anambra State of Nigeria Gazette No. 24, Volume 10 of June 27, 1984, the College was formally named the Anambra State Polytechnic, Oko.