EXCLUSIVE: University of Abuja Reinstates Students Expelled for Exam Malpractice Amid Alleged Links to Senate President Akpabio

The University of Abuja, now officially known as Yakubu Gowon University, has quietly reinstated students previously expelled for involvement in examination malpractice—a decision that has triggered a wave of reactions within the academic community.

In an internal memo dated July 16 and signed by the Acting Registrar, the institution said the amnesty was granted as a gesture aimed at offering the affected students a second chance, allowing them to resume their education without the burden of past disciplinary records.

However, insiders within the university allege that the blanket pardon was driven primarily by pressure surrounding one particular student—Bassey Gold Okon.

An administrative staff member, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, revealed: “The entire reinstatement was really about the girl. There are a few others who were affected, but most of them didn’t bother coming back. Many have already secured admission to other schools. It’s only Bassey Gold Okon who kept showing up and pressuring the management using her connections.”

This development has sparked criticism from some quarters on campus, with many accusing the university of compromising its principles in the face of political influence.

“Is exam malpractice your thing? Just go to UniAbuja. Even if you’re caught, they’ll grant you amnesty,” a member of the university community sarcastically remarked, expressing concern over the implications of such a decision.

Back in 2019, Chronicles Reporters had detailed how the university expelled more than 100 students—72 undergraduates and 28 postgraduates—over examination-related offences. That move was widely seen as part of the school’s broader campaign to enforce academic discipline and preserve the integrity of its academic programs.

When contacted, the university’s Director of Public Relations, Dr. Habibi Yakoob, said he had no prior knowledge of the amnesty decision but promised to investigate and provide a statement. As at the time of this report, no official response had been received from the university’s public relations office.

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