The management of Madonna University, Rivers State, has confirmed the expulsion of some nursing students over a viral video that generated widespread reactions on social media.
The university’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Chima Achu, confirmed the development in a WhatsApp interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday.
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According to Mr Achu, the students who were expelled had recorded the video inside the university’s teaching hospital and posted it with the caption, “No sick oo, nah Gen Z full hospital.”
“We’re preparing a response that’ll go out on Monday; of course there’ll be an official position by the university. I just thought I should let you know. Thank you,” Mr Achu said.
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NANS appeal
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the university management to reconsider its decision to expel the affected students.
NANS President, Akinteye “Babtee” Afeez, said in a statement on Friday that the students’ conduct was unacceptable.
He added that their actions did not reflect the level of discipline and professionalism expected within the university community.
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He said, “However, we humbly appeal to the management of Madonna University, a reputable institution with a long-standing commitment to academic excellence and character formation, to temper justice with mercy and reconsider the severity of the punishment imposed on these students.
“Expulsion is, by far, a grave punishment. Beyond the immediate academic consequences, it can fundamentally alter the course of a young person’s life. These students have invested years of their lives, resources and hopes in pursuing a professional career in Nursing. An expulsion at this stage could have a lasting toll on their academics, their future careers and their mental and emotional wellbeing.”
Clemency
Mr Afeez also appealed to the university management to show leniency by giving the affected students another opportunity to continue their studies.
He urged the institution to reconsider the proposed expulsion and instead issue the students a stern warning.
“We are certain that these students now understand the gravity of what they have done and already regret their action of gross misconduct. They have all taken responsibility and have already learnt their lessons the hard way.
“Therefore, we appeal to the compassion and clemency of the Management of Madonna University to please save their future and give them a second chance,” he said.
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Dream
The union leader argued that discipline should focus on correcting and guiding the students rather than permanently shutting the door on their future.
He said the suspended students were young Nigerians who still had dreams to fulfil, families who depended on them and promising futures to build.
“This must not be the point at which their dreams come to an end. We respectfully appeal to the University Management to reconsider the decision and replace expulsion with a stern letter of warning.
“We are optimistic that the Management of Madonna University will consider this humble appeal and save the future of these students.”
Mr Afeez said the association remained dedicated to promoting academic excellence, ethical values and discipline among students across Nigeria.
He said that the group would not tolerate moral decadence and would continue to encourage students to demonstrate responsible behaviour.
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