Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has called on Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) to reconsider its decision to confer an honorary doctorate on Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The university had announced that President Hassan would be honoured with a Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) during its 25th anniversary celebration scheduled for April 11, 2026.
In a statement issued by Falana’s chambers, the senior advocate raised concerns over alleged human rights violations under Hassan’s administration, citing reports of unlawful killings, excessive use of force, and suppression of dissent.
He argued that universities, as institutions of moral and intellectual leadership, must uphold values such as justice, human dignity, and accountability, warning that proceeding with the award could send the wrong message.
“Honorary degrees are not merely ceremonial; they represent institutional endorsement of integrity and public service,” Falana stated, urging the university to suspend the planned conferment.
He further warned that honouring the Tanzanian leader under such circumstances could undermine both Nigeria’s constitutional principles and its commitments under international human rights frameworks.
Falana also called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to intervene, asking the regulatory body to review whether the proposed award complies with its February 2026 guidelines on honorary degrees.
According to him, the guidelines require strict vetting processes and mandate that such honours be reserved for individuals with proven integrity and outstanding contributions to society.
He stressed that failure to adhere to these standards could erode public trust in the academic system, urging both NSUK and the NUC to act swiftly to uphold credibility and accountability.