The Senate of the University of Abuja has taken a hardline disciplinary stance, expelling 28 students following findings of misconduct ranging from cult-related activities and examination malpractice to drug possession and threats to life.

The decision was reached at the institution’s 191st Regular Senate Meeting after reviewing the report of the Student Disciplinary Committee. University authorities stated that the affected students were found guilty of serious violations of campus regulations, including assault, conspiracy, burglary, theft, falsification of ‘O’ Level results submitted during admission, and possession or use of hard drugs.

Officials stressed that such behaviours undermine academic integrity and campus safety. According to the university’s statement, the expulsions reflect a commitment to maintaining discipline and safeguarding the learning environment.

In addition to the expulsions, the Senate withdrew certificates previously issued to 15 former students who allegedly failed to respond to repeated invitations from the disciplinary committee to answer allegations against them. The move signals the university’s intent to uphold accountability even beyond active student status.

Meanwhile, nine students were exonerated after investigations found insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims against them. A further 33 students received formal warnings for lesser infractions, including hostel racketeering, conspiracy and fighting — offences considered disruptive but not warranting harsher penalties.

Reacting to the decisions, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman of Senate, Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi, reaffirmed the university’s zero-tolerance approach to actions that compromise academic standards and campus security. He emphasised that disciplinary measures are essential not only for enforcement but also for instilling values of responsibility and good citizenship.

“The academic integrity of the university is sacrosanct,” he said. “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.”

Fawehinmi added that the institution remains committed to creating a safe and conducive learning environment while strengthening student engagement, counselling and orientation programmes to prevent future infractions.

The expulsions highlight growing concerns within Nigerian tertiary institutions over cultism, exam fraud and other forms of misconduct. Universities across the country have increasingly adopted stringent disciplinary frameworks to address these challenges and preserve academic credibility.

For the affected students, the decision represents a significant setback. For the university, it signals a firm message: adherence to rules and ethical conduct remains non-negotiable.