FUOYE Suspension Row Deepens as NANS Threatens Shutdown, Demands Due Process

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has threatened to shut down the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) over the suspension of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Comrade James Iyanuoluwa Adio, and other student leaders.

The threat comes amid growing controversy surrounding disciplinary actions taken by the university. Earlier, FUOYE suspended the SUG president and other officials over allegations linked to unauthorized financial collections from students.

Although NANS said it supports accountability, the association insisted that disciplinary measures must follow due process.

NANS Questions Suspension Process

In a statement issued by its Southwest Zone D Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, NANS expressed concern over the manner of the suspension.

According to the association, allegations involving financial misconduct should pass through recognized student governance structures. These include the Students’ Representative Council (SRC), where applicable.

Furthermore, NANS warned against actions that could be viewed as politically motivated. It also cautioned against measures capable of intimidating elected student leaders.

“Our concern is further strengthened by the public record of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joshua Ogunwole. During his tenure as Vice Chancellor of Bowen University, the institution reportedly reduced its staff strength by not less than 100 in 2020 under what was described as restructuring and right-sizing.

“Today, shortly after his return to FUOYE as Vice Chancellor, we are again witnessing disciplinary actions affecting both staff and student leadership. This raises legitimate concerns about whether reform is being pursued through consultation and justice, or through fear and administrative force,” he said.

Student Body Seeks Transparent Investigation

While distancing itself from financial misconduct, NANS maintained that every allegation deserves a fair hearing.

Consequently, the association urged the university to adopt a transparent investigative process. It argued that punishment should not precede the conclusion of investigations.

“We are not saying the allegations should be ignored. We are saying that punishment must not come before a transparent process. If there are claims of unauthorised collections, let there be a properly constituted investigative committee with representatives of management, student affairs, student parliament, security or legal observers, and relevant student stakeholders.

“Let every accused person be given a fair hearing. Let the evidence be presented clearly. Let justice be seen to be done,” he added.

Meanwhile, FUOYE management has maintained that the suspension forms part of an ongoing investigation. University authorities have also stated that a fact-finding process was initiated following complaints about alleged unauthorized levies.

NANS Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum

Beyond its criticism of the suspension, NANS outlined several demands. First, it called for the reversal or suspension of the disciplinary action within 48 hours. The association said this should remain in effect pending a transparent investigation.

In addition, it demanded an investigative committee with student representation. It also sought public disclosure of the procedures that led to the suspension.

Moreover, NANS requested guarantees against the victimization of students connected to the matter. It further urged the university to engage the NANS Ekiti Joint Campus Committee (JCC) and the Southwest leadership.

Association Announces Campus Visit

As part of its next steps, NANS announced plans to visit the university on Monday. According to the association, the visit will enable its officials to gather facts and consult stakeholders. It also intends to assess the situation firsthand.

“We also notify the management that NANS Southwest shall be at the gate of Federal University Oye-Ekiti on Monday to make proper findings, engage relevant stakeholders and speak against any leadership style that intimidates the student community.

“Let it be clear that NANS Southwest stands for accountability, but accountability must never be used as a cover for victimisation. We stand for discipline, but discipline must follow due process. We stand for reform, but reform must not destroy the confidence of students in their union structure,” the statement added.

For now, tensions remain high on campus. However, the planned engagement may provide an opportunity for dialogue. Observers will be watching closely to see how both sides respond in the coming days.