Twenty eight students have lost their places at the University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University, after the institution's Senate approved their expulsion for serious disciplinary violations, including cultism, examination fraud, and drug offences.
The Senate decided at its 191st regular meeting held on January 28th, 2026, at the main campus, acting on recommendations from the Student Disciplinary Committee following thorough investigations into each case.
Dr Habib Yakoob, Acting Director of Information and University Relations, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, revealing that affected students committed offences ranging from cult related activities, threat to life and assault, conspiracy, burglary and theft, to examination malpractice, possession and use of hard drugs, and falsification of O Level results uploaded on the university's admission portal.
The Senate went further to withdraw certificates previously issued to 15 former students who allegedly ignored several invitations by the disciplinary committee to answer questions about their conduct during their time at the institution.
However, nine students received good news after investigations cleared them of wrongdoing, exonerating them completely from allegations brought against them.
Another 33 students escaped expulsion but received warnings for various infractions, including conspiracy, hostel racketeering, and fighting, giving them a chance to reform their behaviour and continue their studies.
Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, Vice Chancellor and Chairman of Senate, emphasised that the institution would maintain its standards without compromise, stressing that anyone undermining academic integrity would face appropriate consequences.
"The academic integrity of the university is sacrosanct, and we are determined that anyone who violates it will be appropriately sanctioned. Our goal is not only to enforce discipline but also to guide our students towards responsible citizenship and academic excellence," Professor Fawehinmi stated.
He praised the Student Disciplinary Committee for handling the cases with thoroughness and diligence, urging students to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions that could destroy their academic futures.
The Vice Chancellor revealed plans to strengthen student engagement, counselling, and orientation programmes to promote responsible conduct and prevent future infractions, demonstrating the university's commitment to prevention rather than only punishment.
Professor Fawehinmi reaffirmed the institution's determination to maintain a safe and conducive learning environment for students and staff, noting that enforcing rules and regulations remains essential to achieving the university's educational mission.
