Campus Elections Turn Chaotic
The atmosphere at Ebonyi State University (EBSU) was thrown into turmoil over the weekend. This is to the institution’s management announcing the expulsion of three students for allegedly possessing firearms during the recent Students’ Union Government (SUG) elections.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Awoke, disclosed the decision during the inauguration of newly elected SUG executives. He said the move became necessary “to maintain discipline and discourage acts of violence among students.”
University authorities confirmed that the expelled students were apprehended by police officers after being found with guns and live ammunition at the election venue. They were reportedly involved in a shooting incident aimed at dispersing voters and allegedly attempted to attack the Dean of Student Affairs.
University Moves to Restore Order
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Awoke, warned in strong terms that the institution “would not tolerate cultism, examination malpractice, or any form of intimidation involving weapons.” He added that the case had already been handed over to law enforcement for prosecution.
He reaffirmed EBSU’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure learning environment, stressing that “anyone involved in criminal activities would face immediate expulsion and legal action.”
The management described the disciplinary action as a necessary measure to preserve peace on campus and deter others from engaging in similar acts of misconduct.
A National Concern Over Firearms
The incident has reignited national concerns about the alarming proliferation of illegal firearms across Nigeria. In 2024, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani revealed that there were about 200 million illegal firearms in circulation in the country. This represent 80 percent of the estimated 250 million illegal weapons in West Africa.
He argued that the unchecked spread of firearms has worsened Nigeria’s insecurity. Thus, calling for urgent reforms to the country’s outdated Firearms Act. Nigeria’s Firearms Act has remained unchanged for more than three decades.
A Call for Reflection
The EBSU case serves as a disturbing reminder of how far gun culture has seeped into Nigeria’s youth spaces. What should have been a peaceful exercise in student democracy turned into a near-tragedy. The university’s decisive action, though painful, underscores the need for moral reawakening, discipline, and vigilance within academic communities.
As the expelled students face the consequences of their actions, the message from EBSU remains unmistakable. The message is, our University is not a training ground for armed thugs.