The management of Madonna University, Rivers State, says it will issue an official response on Monday regarding the expulsion of some nursing students over a viral video that sparked widespread reactions on social media.
The university’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Chima Achu, confirmed the development to PREMIUM TIMES, saying management was preparing a formal position on the matter.
“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.
The students were reportedly expelled after recording a video inside the university’s teaching hospital and posting it on social media with the caption, “No sick oo, nah Gen Z full hospital.”
The development has since attracted calls for the university to reconsider the punishment imposed on the students.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), while describing the students’ conduct as unacceptable, appealed to the university management to temper justice with mercy and reconsider the expulsion.
NANS President, Akinteye “Babtee” Afeez, said in a statement on Friday that the students’ actions did not reflect the level of discipline and professionalism expected within the university community.
However, he urged the institution to consider the long-term consequences of expulsion on the affected 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,” Mr Afeez said.
He added that expulsion could have a lasting impact on their academic pursuits, future careers and personal wellbeing.
Mr Afeez appealed to the university management to give the students another opportunity to continue their studies, suggesting that a stern warning could be imposed instead of expulsion.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
The NANS president argued that disciplinary measures should focus on correcting and guiding students rather than permanently ending their academic careers.
He said the affected students were young Nigerians with aspirations, families and futures ahead of them.
“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 NANS remained committed to promoting academic excellence, ethical values and discipline among students across Nigeria.
He added that while the association would not condone misconduct or moral decadence among students, it would continue to advocate measures that encourage responsible behaviour and provide opportunities for students to learn from their mistakes.
