NANS slams UNIPORT over students’ union dissolution, insists on due process
University of Port Harcourt Faces Student Backlash Over Union Dissolution
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the recent decision by the University of Port Harcourt to dissolve its Students’ Union Government (SUG), calling the move a violation of students’ democratic rights. NANS has demanded an immediate reversal of the dissolution.
In a statement released over the weekend, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde Afeez expressed concern over a memorandum issued by the university’s Office of the Dean of Student Affairs. The memorandum announced the immediate dissolution of the Students’ Union, Hall Representatives, and all associated activities.
While NANS acknowledged the university’s authority to investigate allegations against elected student leaders, the organization criticized the lack of due process, transparency, and fair hearing in the dissolution.
“The Students’ Union is a democratically elected body established to represent the interests and welfare of students,” the statement read. “It should not be dissolved through an administrative directive without clearly stated allegations, a proper investigation, and an opportunity for the affected officials to defend themselves.”
The directive also called for union officials to surrender properties, documents, and financial records immediately and required their appearance before an investigative panel. NANS raised concerns about the fairness and independence of this process.
The association urged university management to pause the implementation of the dissolution order, respect the mandate of elected officials, and publicly disclose the reasons for the action. It also called for the formation of an impartial investigative panel and for the affected leaders to receive a fair hearing.
NANS urged the university to avoid any intimidation or disciplinary actions against student leaders performing their representative duties. “We are not opposed to accountability,” the statement added. “However, any student leader found guilty of misconduct should be sanctioned according to due process.”
The association emphasized that accountability should not undermine students’ democratic institutions or hinder legitimate representation. NANS characterized the University of Port Harcourt as a “citadel of learning and democracy,” advocating for resolution of disputes between management and the Students’ Union through dialogue and adherence to due process rather than unilateral action.
NANS has committed to engaging with relevant stakeholders and stated its intention to pursue all lawful measures to safeguard the rights and welfare of students. The association reiterated its demand for the immediate reversal of the dissolution order pending a transparent and fair investigation.
