Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has rusticated 37 students for one academic session due to their alleged involvement in creating a WhatsApp group to organize protests against the university’s introduction of a third semester. The university accused the students of “criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance of public peace, and cyber-stalking.”
The decision was approved during the university’s 123rd Regular Senate Meeting on October 31, 2024, following a review by the Students’ Disciplinary Committee. A letter signed by the Registrar, Dr. Bala I. Ahmed, instructed the affected students to stay off campus unless authorized and to return in the 2025/2026 academic session with their guardians and a letter of good conduct.
This action has sparked criticism from various groups. The Nigerian Students Alliance condemned the university’s decision, arguing that no student should be punished for exercising their right to peaceful protest. Similarly, the Take-It-Back Movement has demanded the immediate reinstatement of the rusticated students, emphasizing that the punishment is excessive and infringes on the students’ rights.
In response, NSUK issued a press statement defending its decision, stating that the disciplinary action was taken to maintain order and uphold the institution’s regulations.
The incident has ignited a broader debate about students’ rights to organize and protest, as well as the appropriate disciplinary measures that educational institutions should employ.
