Nasarawa State University Rusticates 37 Students Over WhatsApp Protest Plans

Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), has rusticated 37 students for one academic session due to their alleged involvement in a WhatsApp group planning a protest against the university's policies.

According to documents obtained, the university accused the students of "criminal conspiracy, inciting public disturbance, and cyber-stalking" related to their opposition to the introduction of a third semester.

The Students' Disciplinary Committee summoned the affected students, and their rustication was approved by the university's Senate on October 31, 2024. The students are barred from campus for the 2024/2025 academic session and must stay away unless authorized in writing.

A letter from the university's Registrar, Dr. Bala I. Ahmed, directed the students to resume in the first semester of the 2025/2026 academic session, accompanied by a parent or guardian, and submit a letter of undertaking to maintain good conduct.

The university cited security concerns and emphasized that the disciplinary action was necessary to maintain order on campus. The decision has sparked mixed reactions among students and stakeholders, with some supporting the university's stance on discipline and others arguing that the punishment is excessive and undermines students' rights.