The University of Abuja has reinforced its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct, announcing sweeping disciplinary actions aimed at strengthening academic integrity and campus safety.
At its 191st Regular Senate Meeting, the institution’s governing Senate approved the expulsion of 28 students found guilty of offences ranging from cult-related activities and examination malpractice to drug possession and threats to life. The decision followed a detailed review of recommendations submitted by the Student Disciplinary Committee.
In addition to the expulsions, the Senate ordered the withdrawal of certificates previously issued to 15 former students who failed to respond to multiple invitations from the disciplinary panel. However, not all cases resulted in sanctions. Nine students were cleared of wrongdoing after investigations, while 33 others received formal warnings for infractions including hostel racketeering, conspiracy, and fighting.
The Acting Director of Information and University Relations, Dr. Habib Yakoob, confirmed the development in a statement released on Sunday and reported by The Cable. According to the statement, offences established during investigations included assault, burglary, theft, falsification of ‘O’ Level results uploaded during admission processing, and possession and use of hard drugs.
Speaking on the decisions, Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of Senate, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, emphasized that the measures reflect the institution’s broader commitment to safeguarding its standards.
“The academic integrity of the university is sacrosanct, and we are determined that anyone who violates it will be appropriately sanctioned,” he stated, adding that discipline is being balanced with mentorship and preventive strategies.
Fawehinmi noted that while enforcement remains firm, the university is also strengthening counselling services, student engagement initiatives, and orientation programmes to curb future infractions and promote responsible conduct.
The actions signal a renewed institutional drive to confront indiscipline and criminal tendencies within tertiary institutions, as universities nationwide grapple with rising concerns over cultism, examination fraud, and drug-related offences.