Nasarawa State University, Keffi, has rusticated 37 students for one academic session due to their involvement in creating a WhatsApp group to organize a protest against the university’s decision to start a third semester.
The university authorities stated that the students were found guilty of criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbance, and cyber-stalking. This decision was approved during the university Senate’s 123rd Regular Meeting held on October 31, 2024, following the recommendation of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee.
According to official documents dated December 9, 2024, and January 21, 2025, the affected students were invited to appear before the committee to explain their actions. After the hearing, the university decided to rusticate them for the 2024/2025 academic session.
The rustication letter, signed by the Registrar, Dr. Bala I. Ahmed, instructed the students to stay away from the university premises unless they have written permission. They are to return for the first semester of the 2025/2026 academic session with their parent or guardian and a letter promising good behaviour throughout their time at the university.
The letter reads in part: “You are hereby Rusticated from the 2024/2025 Academic Session. During the period of rustication, you shall keep away from the University premises unless authorised in writing to come. You are to resume for full academic program in the First Semester of 2025/2026 Academic Session with your parent/guardian and a letter of undertaking promising to be of good behaviour throughout your studentship in the University.”
Additionally, an internal memo signed by Dogo Bitrus Moni from the Students’ Disciplinary Committee emphasized that the students were invited to ensure fairness in the disciplinary process. The memo listed the students’ names, matriculation numbers, departments, and faculties.
The Chief Security Officer and other relevant university officials have been directed to enforce the rustication order strictly.
See photos below for further details:
