A Nigerian undergraduate has sparked widespread outrage on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) after alleging that a lecturer seized her mobile phone during a lecture and demanded a sum of ₦10,000 before releasing it. The incident, which has since gone viral, has reignited debates around abuse of power, harassment, and accountability in Nigerian universities.
According to the student, who identified herself as a 300-level undergraduate, the incident occurred when she attempted to silence her phone as the lecturer walked into the classroom. She claimed the lecturer assumed she was actively using the device and immediately confiscated it without giving her room to explain.
In her account shared online, the student said she apologised repeatedly and remained behind after the lecture in an attempt to retrieve her phone. However, she alleged that the lecturer insisted she must pay ₦10,000 before the phone could be returned, despite her explanation that she was not using it during the class.
What further angered many social media users was her claim that she was made to kneel publicly while pleading for her phone, yet the lecturer allegedly refused to release it until the full amount was paid. The student described the experience as humiliating and emotionally distressing.
As the story gained traction on X, thousands of users reacted with anger and disbelief. One user wrote, “This is pure abuse of power. Since when did lecturers start collecting fines in cash?” Another commenter added, “Even if she used her phone, where in the school rules says a lecturer should collect ₦10,000?”
Some users called directly on the university authorities to act swiftly. “If this is ignored, it sends a message that students can be bullied without consequences,” an X user posted, tagging the institution’s official handle.
Others shared similar experiences, suggesting the incident may not be isolated. “I experienced something close to this in my second year. Students are afraid to speak because of victimisation,” another commenter claimed.
Human rights advocates and education stakeholders also weighed in, describing the allegation as extortion if proven. A popular education commentator on X stated, “Confiscation is one thing, demanding money is another. That crosses a legal and ethical line.”
The incident has intensified calls for universities to clearly define and enforce policies on phone usage in classrooms, as well as establish transparent disciplinary procedures that protect students from arbitrary punishment.
As of the time of filing this report, the management of the institution involved has not issued an official statement addressing the allegation. However, pressure continues to mount online, with many demanding a thorough and transparent investigation.
Observers note that cases like this highlight broader concerns about power imbalance between lecturers and students, and the need for stronger reporting and accountability mechanisms within tertiary institutions.
With the story still trending on X, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the school authorities will respond decisively or allow the matter to fade amid public anger.
For now, the incident remains a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard student rights and reinforce professionalism within Nigeria’s higher education system.
