Amnesty demands reversal of Madonna university nursing students’ sanctions

“Also, the university must uphold the rights of everyone, including the rights to freedom of expression, education and academic freedom,” Amnesty said.

The organisation urged the university to prioritise dialogue and mediation rather than maintaining what it described as harsh disciplinary measures.

Student Bodies Seek Review

The sanctions had earlier attracted appeals from the Nigerian Universities Nursing Students’ Association and the National Association of Nigerian Students.

NUNSA said it had commenced discussions with relevant stakeholders to seek a review of the university’s decision.

NANS also appealed for clemency, arguing that the expulsion could have lasting consequences for the affected students’ academic and professional futures.

The appeals followed concerns over the potential impact of the disciplinary measures on students who are already in their final stages of university education.

The latest intervention by Amnesty International adds to the growing calls for a reconsideration of the sanctions.

The rights organisation’s position centres on the need for disciplinary procedures to balance institutional rules with students’ rights to education and academic freedom.

University Yet to Announce Review

The university’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Chima Achu, had previously told journalists that the institution would issue an official statement on the matter.

As of the latest development, no announcement indicating a reversal of the expulsion or suspension had been reported.

The controversy has therefore placed renewed attention on how universities handle students’ participation in social media trends and the disciplinary consequences of conduct deemed inconsistent with institutional or professional expectations.

While Amnesty has urged the university to rescind the sanctions and pursue dialogue, the final decision on the disciplinary measures remains with the institution.

The development is also expected to sustain discussions around student conduct, social media use, academic freedom and the disciplinary responsibilities of higher education institutions.