By Prince Petrus Obi
As an alumnus of the University of Nigeria (UNN), I wish to commend Mr Chidi Kingsley Akabogu, a third-year law student of the Faculty of Law, Enugu Campus, for the courage he displayed in taking his concerns to court when he felt his rights were being trampled upon.
It is not common for students to go down such a bold but lawful route, and his action deserves recognition.
I must also commend the Faculty of Law, led by Prof Festus O. Ukwueze and Dr Clara Obi-Ochiabutor, for handling the matter responsibly. Rather than victimising the student, the Faculty chose to defend its position in court and abide by the judgment. This shows maturity and respect for due process.
Credit equally goes to the Vice Chancellor, Prof Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, for providing leadership that allows both staff and students to operate under the rule of law.
The way this case was handled is rare in our universities as both the student and the Faculty acted with restraint and fairness. For me, this is a “win-win” for UNN.
Importantly, this judgment has set a new precedent which other institutions across Nigeria will no doubt look to in future. It has shown that discipline and rights can be balanced without intimidation or abuse of power.
That said, I appeal to the Faculty to kindly consider waiving the N300,000 cost imposed on the student. Such a gesture will send a powerful message of fairness and magnanimity. At the same time, I urge Mr Akabogu to present himself before the Examination Malpractice Committee and cooperate fully with its process.
Above all, I encourage the University to see Mr Akabogu as an asset rather than a liability. A student who believes so strongly in justice and fairness is one who embodies the very values the Faculty of Law seeks to uphold. His courage, and the Faculty’s measured response, have together strengthened the image of UNN as a true citadel of learning and justice.
Signed
Prince Petrus Obi
Alumnus, University of Nigeria
