After weeks of heated tension on campus, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) has finally reinstated four students who were earlier suspended for allegedly planning a protest against the school’s controversial “third semester” policy.
The decision comes after massive backlash from students, rights groups, and the general public, who accused the management of trying to silence students instead of addressing their genuine concerns.
Why Were the Students Suspended?
The four students were accused of mobilizing their colleagues to stage a peaceful protest against the introduction of a “third semester” system — a policy many described as unnecessary, exploitative, and stressful for both students and their parents.
Instead of addressing the grievances, the university slammed the students with suspension letters, sparking outrage across social media. Many described the move as “too extreme” and a direct attack on students’ right to free speech and association.
Management Finally Bows to Pressure
With mounting pressure from student unions, human rights advocates, and concerned Nigerians, the school management was forced to reconsider its decision.
In a fresh statement, NSUK announced the reinstatement of the suspended students, saying the decision was taken “in the interest of peace and stability” within the university community.
While the management maintained that discipline is important, they admitted that dialogue with stakeholders helped them reach the new resolution.
Students Celebrate ‘Victory’
News of the reinstatement spread quickly across the campus, with many students celebrating it as a major win.
“This is proof that when students stand together, their voices can be heard,” one student said. “Suspending people for planning a peaceful protest was never the right move. We’re glad the management corrected itself.”
On social media, hashtags related to NSUK trended as students and alumni hailed the decision, though some insisted the bigger issue — the third semester policy — still needs to be scrapped.
What’s Next for the Third Semester Policy?
Even though the students have been reinstated, the controversial third semester policy is still standing, and it remains the elephant in the room. Many believe the reinstatement is just the first step and are calling on the university to listen to student concerns about the financial and academic stress the policy will bring.
Observers say that unless the policy is reviewed, tensions could rise again in the future.
Final Word
For now, calm seems to have returned to NSUK following the management’s decision to lift the suspension. But one thing is clear — students are more determined than ever to speak out, and the university will need to engage with them if it hopes to avoid further confrontations.
As it stands, this whole episode has turned into a lesson on the power of student voices, proving once again that silence is not always golden.