University of Abuja Grants Amnesty to Expelled Students, Amid Allegations of Political Influence

The University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University, has controversially granted amnesty to students previously expelled for exam malpractice—allegedly due to political pressure linked to Senate President Godswill Akpabio—raising concerns over fairness and academic integrity.

In a surprising development, the University of Abuja—recently renamed Yakubu Gowon University—has granted amnesty to students previously expelled for examination malpractice. The controversial decision has sparked outrage on campus and raised concerns over alleged political interference, particularly linking one of the beneficiaries to Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Second Chance or Special Treatment?

A university memo dated July 16 and signed by Acting Registrar Mustapha Tanimu detailed the amnesty decision. Titled “Implementation of Amnesty for Students Involved in Examination Misconduct”, the memo announced that the University Senate, during its 189th Regular Meeting on May 28, 2025, approved reinstatement for students disciplined between the 2020/2021 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.

According to the memo, the university’s delay in acting on the recommendations from the Central Examination Misconduct Committee was a key reason for the blanket amnesty. “This decision was aimed at promoting a fresh start… providing an opportunity for the students to continue their academic pursuit without the burden of past infractions,” it read.

Specific Cases Spark Allegations

Documents obtained by Sahara Reporters reveal that among the beneficiaries are:

• Moore Emmanuel – Matric No. 16271044, Medical Microbiology & Parasitology
  Accused of using an Android phone during an exam on June 7, 2023. Despite repeated warnings, he was caught and recommended for expulsion.
• Bassey Gold Okon – Matric No. 16271181, Chemical Pathology
  Allegedly used an iPhone 13 during an exam on June 8, 2023. Despite announcements prohibiting electronic devices, she also faced expulsion.

While the university claims fairness and procedural delays led to the mass amnesty, insiders allege political interference—particularly in the case of Bassey Gold Okon. A source told Sahara Reporters:

“The decision was primarily made because of her. Most of the other expelled students didn’t even return—they had moved on. But she kept pressuring the management, citing her connections.”

Another university official added, “It’s not about justice. It’s about who you know.”

Integrity in Question

The move has drawn sharp criticism from within and outside the academic community.

“Want to beat the system? Just commit exam malpractice in Abuja and wait for a pardon,” one university staff member said sarcastically.

Critics argue that such decisions undermine institutional credibility and could encourage future misconduct.

In 2019, the university expelled over 100 students—72 undergraduates and 28 postgraduates—for similar offences, in a drive to uphold academic standards. That move was praised. Today’s reversal has many asking whether the university’s commitment to academic integrity still stands.

Official Silence

When reached for comment, the university’s Director of Public Relations, Dr. Habibi Yakoob, said he was unaware of the development but promised to investigate. As of publication, no further response had been received.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SAHARA REPORTER’S