The management of Ebonyi State University (EBSU) has expelled three students found with firearms during the institution’s Students’ Union Government (SUG) election, describing the decision as part of a broader effort to stamp out violence and cultism on campus.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Michael Awoke, announced the expulsion during the weekend inauguration of the newly elected SUG executives. He said the students had been arrested by the police after being caught with guns and live ammunition allegedly used to threaten fellow students and staff during the election.
Awoke explained that the university’s decision was aimed at preserving order and discipline, noting that no form of intimidation, cultism, or weapon possession would be tolerated under his watch. He added that EBSU would continue to act decisively against any student who undermines the safety and integrity of the academic environment.
The Vice Chancellor stressed that cultism and violence have no place in the institution and warned that any student found engaging in criminal behaviour would face immediate expulsion. He said the era of students using weapons to intimidate others or influence academic decisions was over.
University Enforces Zero Tolerance for Violence
According to Awoke, the expulsion of the three students was both a disciplinary and symbolic action meant to serve as a deterrent to others. He said EBSU is determined to maintain a culture of peace and responsibility among its students, especially during politically charged events such as student elections.
The Vice Chancellor confirmed that the matter had been taken to court and assured that the university would not shield any student from legal consequences. He described the use of firearms in a university environment as reckless and unacceptable, emphasizing that the management is working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.
Reports from campus security indicated that the three students were apprehended during the SUG elections after allegedly firing shots to scare voters and attempting to attack the Dean of Student Affairs. The incident caused widespread panic and disrupted the election process, leading to heightened security concerns across the university community.
Maintaining Peace and Academic Integrity
Awoke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a safe learning atmosphere, free from intimidation and criminal activity. He said the university’s focus remains on nurturing students who embody discipline and moral integrity rather than those who resort to violence or misconduct.
He urged students to concentrate on their studies and use leadership positions to promote unity and development rather than chaos. The Vice Chancellor also appealed to parents and guardians to monitor their wards and discourage them from associating with cult groups or violent peers.
Read also: Ogun Government Firmly Denies Allegations of Renaming Tai Solarin University of Education
Awoke maintained that the expelled students would no longer be recognized as members of the university community and reiterated that anyone caught engaging in similar acts would face the same punishment. He assured that EBSU would continue collaborating with security agencies to ensure that the campus remains safe for students and staff.
The expulsion of the three students, he said, should send a strong message that the institution will not compromise on discipline or condone behaviour capable of tarnishing its reputation.
Discover more from RainSMediaRadio
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
