The Federal High Court in Ibadan has ordered the University of Ibadan to reinstate three students—Aduwo Ayodele, Gbadegesin Iyanuoluwa, and Linus Adaoma—suspended for protesting during the inauguration of the student union executive on May 13, 2024. The students had carried placards calling for a reduction in school fees. Their lawyer, Mr Adedayo Ajani, argued that the disciplinary committee's decision of July 14, 2025, violated their right to fair hearing and treated them as criminals, including handing them over to Operation Burst. Justice Nkeonye Maha ruled that the university's disciplinary action was null due to lack of fair hearing and noted no evidence that the protest disrupted the inauguration. The court ordered full restoration of their student status from May 13, 2024, and barred further disciplinary measures related to the incident.
The court's ruling affirms that disciplinary actions in public universities must follow due process, offering affected students a legal pathway to challenge suspensions perceived as unjust. This decision may influence how student protests are handled across Nigerian tertiary institutions, especially those concerning tuition and governance.
In a system where student dissent is often met with punitive measures, the judgment underscores the legitimacy of peaceful protest within academic spaces. Given recurring disputes over fees and welfare in universities under JAMB and NUC oversight, this outcome could embolden more students to seek redress through the judiciary when institutional channels fail.
Students and parents should document all interactions with university disciplinary bodies and seek legal counsel early when rights appear violated, particularly in cases involving protests or administrative penalties.
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