The University of Abuja has defended its decision not to punish its students who were caught cheating during examination.
In a recent statement signed by Dr. Habib Yakoob, who is the acting director of information and university relations, the decision to grant what he called “amnesty” to several students of the school, who were caught with examination malpractice, was taken in accordance with the powers conferred on the senate of the university.
According to the statement, “the attention of the management of the University of Abuja (now Yakubu Gowon University) has been drawn to reports published by an online platform concerning the recent amnesty granted to some students of the institution.”
The statement also claimed that “it is important to state clearly that it was the senate of the university, at its 189th regular meeting held on Wednesday, 28 May, 2025 that approved an amnesty for students alleged to have been involved in examination misconduct between the 2020/2021 and the first semester of the 2024/2025 academic sessions.
“This decision was taken in accordance with the powers conferred on the senate by the University of Abuja Act (Section 19, Subsection 1) and followed a detailed consideration of the recommendations submitted by the central examination misconduct committee.
“The university management wishes to state that the institution remains firmly committed to due process, transparency, and full compliance with all regulatory standards set by the relevant professional bodies, including the National Universities Commission (NUC).
“It should also be stated that the claim that this senate decision was intended to appease anyone or was politically motivated is both false and misleading. The students, who are the beneficiaries of this amnesty, cut across different faculties and levels, and were not limited to any particular group or individual. The decision itself was made in good faith.
“The university remains resolute in treating with all seriousness cases of examination misconduct, and sanctions are applied where appropriate. However, the university senate, which is the highest academic decision-making body, also has the power to intervene or review pending cases as part of its responsibility to ensure timely and fair academic justice.
“The university assures all stakeholders that its decisions are guided by transparency, integrity, and respect for academic standards, institutional growth, and public trust.”
