The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the dissolution of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), insisting that the action violated established democratic procedures and undermined students’ rights.
In a statement issued on Monday, NANS described the decision as a breach of due process, arguing that the dissolution failed to comply with constitutional provisions guiding student representation within the institution.
“The Students’ Union is a democratically elected body established to represent the interests and welfare of students and should not be dissolved through an administrative directive without clearly stated allegations, a proper investigation, and an opportunity for the affected officials to defend themselves,” the student body said.
The association maintained that while university authorities possess the responsibility of maintaining order on campus, such powers must be exercised within the bounds of fairness, transparency and the rule of law.
NANS stressed that elected student leaders cannot be arbitrarily removed without following laid-down procedures, warning that actions perceived as suppressing legitimate student representation could erode confidence in university governance.
The student body called on the management of the University of Port Harcourt to immediately review the decision and engage relevant stakeholders in resolving the matter through dialogue rather than unilateral action.
It further urged the institution to uphold democratic principles by respecting the autonomy of student unions and ensuring that disciplinary measures, where necessary, comply with constitutional and administrative guidelines.
“We urge the university to refrain from any form of intimidation, victimisation, or disciplinary action against student leaders for carrying out their representative duties,” NANS stated.
“We are not opposed to accountability. We maintain that any student leader found guilty of financial misconduct or any other offence should be sanctioned in line with due process,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian students, NANS said it would continue to monitor developments closely and pursue all legitimate avenues to ensure justice and due process prevail in the matter.
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