The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the suspension of students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), describing the action as unjust and calling for its immediate reversal.
In a statement issued on 5 June 2026, NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, said the suspension followed a peaceful protest and amounted to a violation of students’ fundamental rights.
He argued that the right to peaceful protest is guaranteed under Sections 39 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which provide for freedom of expression, assembly, and association, stressing that students should not be penalised for exercising those rights.
According to him, the decision by the university management reflects what he described as an “oppressive and authoritarian” approach, warning that it could further escalate tensions on campus.
Drawing comparisons, the student leader questioned why students should be punished for protests while other stakeholders in the education sector, such as academic unions, are allowed to embark on industrial actions without sanctions.
He directed NANS officials in Zone D and the Oyo State Joint Campus Council to immediately intervene in the matter, insisting that the association would not remain passive in the face of what it termed injustice and victimisation.
The NANS President urged the management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology to reverse the suspension without delay, warning that continued refusal could lead to further actions by the student body, including relocation of its secretariat to the institution.
He reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, stressing that the association would continue to pursue its mandate through lawful and structured engagement.
NANS maintained that protecting students’ rights is central to sustaining peace and fairness within the nation’s tertiary education system.
