LAUTECH student suspensions spark backlash as NANS plans a protest and demands dialogue, fair hearing and reinstatement of affected students

The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has condemned the suspension of several students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology over their alleged involvement in a peaceful protest against the relocation of the Anatomy and Physiology Departments, describing the sanctions as excessive and unfair.

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The student body also announced plans to stage a peaceful protest at the university on Monday, June 8, in response to the disciplinary action.

The position of NANS was contained in a statement jointly signed by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Olugbemi Timothy; General Secretary, Ojetola Babatunde; and Coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah.

According to the association, the affected students protested the relocation of the Anatomy and Physiology Departments from the College of Health Sciences to the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences, a decision they believed would have significant implications for their academic activities, transportation costs, finances and general welfare.

NANS said it was concerned that students who raised legitimate concerns through peaceful means were being punished instead of being engaged through dialogue.

“While NANS does not encourage the breakdown of law and order, we find it troubling that students who raised legitimate concerns over a policy that directly affects their academic welfare are being subjected to punitive measures rather than constructive engagement,” the statement read.

The association noted that representatives of NANS South-West had intervened during the protest by engaging both students and university management in an effort to promote dialogue and reduce tensions.

It expressed disappointment that the university allegedly opted for disciplinary measures rather than addressing the issues that prompted the demonstration.

The controversy over the LAUTECH student suspensions has also revived concerns about student representation within the institution.

NANS pointed to the prolonged suspension of the Students’ Union Government, arguing that the absence of an active union has widened the communication gap between management and students.

“For years, assurances have been made regarding the restoration of student unionism in the institution, yet students remain without a properly functioning representative structure through which their concerns can be formally channelled,” the association stated.

The student body described the reported four-semester suspension handed to the affected students as disproportionate and inconsistent with the principles of fair hearing, restorative justice and democratic engagement within academic institutions.

As part of its demands, NANS called for the immediate review and reversal of the disciplinary action, direct dialogue between university authorities and the affected students, and a clear roadmap for the restoration of the Students’ Union Government.

The association also urged the institution to end what it described as acts capable of intimidating students from expressing legitimate grievances.

“To demonstrate our commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, NANS South-West shall be leading a delegation to LAUTECH on Monday, June 8, 2026, to engage the university management and relevant stakeholders on this matter,” the statement added.

NANS said it remains hopeful that the university management will embrace dialogue and pursue a resolution that reflects the values of academic excellence, justice and responsible administration.