By John Ogunsemore
The National Association of Nigerian Students, Southwest Zone (Zone D) has given the management of the University of Ibadan seven working days to provide clarity on the disciplinary proceedings initiated against three students, Olamide Gbadegeshin, Aduwo Ayodele, and Nice Linus, for their involvement in a peaceful protest against a recent fee increment.
This is contained in a Monday statement jointly signed by the zonal Coordinator and General Secretary, Comrade Taiwo Owolewa and Olutunde A. Oluwole, respectively, following reports of the students’ rustication.
Gbadegeshin, Ayodele and Linus were reportedly suspended for four semesters following a disciplinary panel constituted by the university over their participation in a peaceful protest tagged #FeesMustFall.
The zonal leadership expressed concern over the university’s action and sought dialogue with its management to enable an amicable resolution.
The statement reads, “As an organisation that stands firmly for the rights and welfare of students across all institutions within the Southwest, we believe this matter demands urgent and thoughtful attention.
“While we respect the authority of the university to maintain discipline and order, it is imperative that such actions are guided by fairness, dialogue, and respect for constitutional freedoms.
“Peaceful protest is a legitimate form of civic engagement. It is not and must never be treated as an act of rebellion or criminality. The use of punitive disciplinary action, particularly expulsion, for acts of protest sends a troubling message and does not reflect the values expected of a foremost institution such as the University of Ibadan.”
The zonal leadership maintained that institutions of higher learning should serve as both academic and ethical compasses promoting critical thought, civic responsibility, and non-violent dialogue, noting that responding to dissent with exclusionary measures contradicts these ideals.
The zonal leadership made a four-point appeal, namely, “That the University of Ibadan reviews and rescinds the proposed expulsion of the three affected students. This action, if taken, will only widen the gap between the institution and the student body.
“That the university management provides clarity on its position regarding this matter within seven working days, in the interest of transparency and institutional accountability.
“That a constructive platform for dialogue be established immediately, where concerns can be addressed in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. As stakeholders in the academic community, students must be heard and engaged not silenced.
“That NANS Zone D is open and ready for a roundtable meeting with the University’s leadership, to collectively seek a resolution that aligns with both the rules of the institution and the democratic rights of the students.”
It added, “Our aim is not confrontation but collaboration. We remain committed to defending the rights of students while promoting peaceful coexistence within our campuses.
“We trust that the University of Ibadan, as a prestigious institution, will act with wisdom and fairness in resolving this issue.”
