By The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC) Lagos State, has strongly criticized the reported expulsion of a student from Crawford University, describing the action as a troubling development for students’ rights and freedom of expression. The student body, led by its chairman, Comrade Ridwan Ajayi, raised concerns over what it called the growing intolerance for dissent within academic institutions.
NANS acknowledged the authority of university administrations to enforce discipline but warned against actions that could be perceived as suppressing legitimate student voices. The association argued that higher institutions should foster critical thinking and constructive engagement rather than penalize students for speaking on issues affecting their welfare and education.
“Authority must never be exercised in a manner that suppresses legitimate expression or criminalizes dissent,” Ajayi stated.
The group also questioned the justification for the expulsion, particularly allegations of insubordination and incitement, insisting that such claims must be examined under the principles of fairness and natural justice. It stressed that students remain key stakeholders in the academic system and should not be silenced when raising concerns about their learning environment.
“The line between misconduct and advocacy must not be blurred to the detriment of students seeking accountability,” Ajayi added.
NANS further noted that the incident comes amid broader concerns about the cost of education and learning conditions in some institutions. It warned that punitive responses to student grievances could create a climate of fear and undermine the core values of higher education.
Calling for immediate action, the association urged Crawford University’s management to review the decision through an independent and transparent process. It also appealed to relevant regulatory bodies to intervene, emphasizing its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerian students.
