The National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) has voiced its deep concern regarding the alleged administrative misconduct at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and its potential impact on the quality of education and student welfare. NANS has publicly declared its support for the Governing Council’s decision to form a committee to investigate these allegations, particularly those directed against the Registrar, and has urged a swift resolution to restore accountability and ensure the university maintains its reputation as a respected institution of learning. Central to the students’ complaints is the alleged deliberate delay in addressing critical issues affecting their well-being, highlighting a concerning disconnect between the administration and the student body.
The primary issue brought to light by NANS is the alleged deliberate delay in fumigating the university’s 27 hostels, despite reported severe infestations of pests including bedbugs, rats, mosquitoes, and even snakes. These infestations, according to NANS, posed significant health risks to the students residing in the hostels. NANS asserts that despite the acting Vice-Chancellor securing necessary approvals for the fumigation in October 2024, the process was inexplicably delayed until January 2025, forcing students to endure unsanitary and unsafe living conditions for an extended period. This delay, NANS argues, is indicative of a larger pattern of administrative negligence and a disregard for student welfare. The students’ representative body emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue to ensure a healthy and conducive learning environment.
NANS has also expressed its support for the Governing Council’s decision to investigate the alleged administrative misconduct, specifically referencing allegations against the Registrar. While the specific nature of these allegations hasn’t been fully disclosed in the statement, the emphasis on the Registrar’s role suggests potential issues with administrative processes and decision-making within the university. NANS has explicitly stated its confidence in the integrity and commitment of the Council Chairman and has urged the council to ensure a fair and just investigation. This highlights NANS’s commitment to due process and their belief in the Governing Council’s ability to impartially address the concerns raised.
Furthermore, NANS has called upon the Federal Ministry of Education and other relevant authorities to actively participate in restoring accountability at UNN. This underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for intervention at a higher level to ensure that the university administration prioritizes student welfare and maintains the institution’s academic standing. NANS stresses that UNN is a national asset and its reputation should not be tarnished by administrative shortcomings. This call for broader involvement demonstrates NANS’s commitment to upholding the standards of higher education in Nigeria.
The students’ plea for fairness and justice in this matter highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in university governance. NANS believes that a thorough investigation and appropriate action against any individuals found responsible for misconduct are essential to restore trust and confidence in the university’s administration. This insistence on accountability underscores the students’ desire for a responsive and responsible administration that prioritizes their well-being and academic success.
In conclusion, NANS’s statement underscores the critical need for accountability and transparency in the administration of UNN. The alleged deliberate delay in addressing the pest infestation in student hostels, coupled with other alleged administrative misconducts, has raised serious concerns about the university’s commitment to student welfare. NANS’s call for a thorough investigation and swift action from the Governing Council, the Federal Ministry of Education, and other relevant authorities reflects the students’ determination to ensure that UNN remains a reputable institution that provides a quality education in a safe and conducive environment. The emphasis on fairness and justice further underscores the importance of upholding ethical standards and ensuring that those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable.
