The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has strongly condemned the suspension of several students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in Ogbomoso. The students were suspended for their alleged involvement in a protest against the relocation of the Anatomy and Physiology Departments. NANS described the action as excessive and a threat to legitimate student expression.
NANS Threatens Mass Action
The student body has threatened mass action and announced plans to lead a peaceful protest at the institution on Monday, June 8, to demand the reversal of the suspensions and the restoration of dialogue between the university management and students.
Statement from NANS Leadership
In a statement jointly signed by Coordinator Adeyemo Josiah, General Secretary Ojetola Babatunde, and Public Relations Officer Olugbemi Timothy, NANS expressed concern over what it termed punitive treatment of students who raised concerns about a policy affecting their academic welfare. The association stated that while it does not support lawlessness, it is disturbed that students who participated in a peaceful protest were sanctioned instead of being engaged through constructive dialogue.
“We received with deep concern the suspension letters issued to several students of LAUTECH over their alleged involvement in a peaceful protest concerning the relocation of the Anatomy and Physiology Departments from the College of Health Sciences to the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences,” the statement read.
Background of the Protest
According to NANS, the affected students protested the abrupt implementation of the relocation directive, citing concerns over its implications for academic activities, transportation costs, finances, and overall welfare. The association disclosed that NANS representatives had previously intervened during the protest to de-escalate tensions and encourage dialogue.
“It is disappointing that rather than addressing the underlying concerns that led to the protest, the institution has chosen a path that appears punitive and capable of intimidating students from expressing genuine grievances,” the association stated.
Lack of Student Union Government
NANS also linked the development to the prolonged absence of a Students' Union Government (SUG) at LAUTECH, noting that students have lacked a recognized platform to formally channel their concerns. “For years, assurances have been made regarding the restoration of student unionism in LAUTECH, yet students remain without a functioning representative structure. This has widened the communication gap between management and students and created avoidable tensions,” it added.
Disproportionate Punishment
The student body described the reported four-semester suspension as disproportionate and inconsistent with principles of fair hearing, restorative justice, and democratic engagement in academic institutions. NANS demanded an immediate review and reversal of the disciplinary action, an open dialogue between university authorities and affected students, and a clear roadmap for restoring the Students' Union Government.
The association further called for an end to victimization and intimidation of students, insisting that lawful representation and engagement should not be suppressed.
Planned Peaceful Protest
To press home its demands, NANS announced plans to mobilize students and stakeholders for a peaceful protest at the university on Monday. “To demonstrate our commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, NANS South-West shall be leading a delegation to LAUTECH on Monday, June 8, 2026, to engage the university management and relevant stakeholders on this matter,” the statement added.
The association expressed hope that the university management would embrace dialogue and reconciliation rather than sanctions, stressing that the welfare, rights, and dignity of Nigerian students remain non-negotiable.
