As the second semester examinations near conclusion at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), the institution’s Senate has an...
As the second semester examinations near conclusion at the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA), the institution’s Senate has announced the rustication of 51 students and the outright expulsion of one student over examination misconduct.
The sanctions were approved during the university’s 139th Regular Senate Meeting held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in what many observers describe as one of the institution’s strongest disciplinary actions against academic dishonesty in recent times.
Unlike previous disciplinary measures that took effect in subsequent sessions, the latest sanctions take immediate effect, automatically ending the affected students’ participation in the ongoing second semester examinations.
For the 51 rusticated students, the two-semester suspension means the forfeiture of the current academic session, while the expelled student has permanently lost his or her studentship status at the university.
Although the university has internally released the identities of the affected students, this publication has withheld their names in line with ethical considerations aimed at balancing public interest with the students’ privacy and prospects for rehabilitation.
Speaking during the Senate meeting, Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammed Khalid Othman said the action was taken in accordance with Section 13.3, Sub-section 13.3(c) of the university’s Academic Policy on Examination Irregularity and Academic Misconduct.
The latest disciplinary action raises the total number of students sanctioned by the institution this academic session to 72, following an earlier batch of 20 rustications approved by the Senate on March 11, 2026.
The sharp increase in sanctions within two months signals an intensified crackdown on examination malpractice by the university authorities. Sources within the institution revealed that tighter invigilation measures and increased monitoring during examinations contributed to the discovery of multiple infractions currently being processed by the Committee on Examination Misconduct.
All 52 affected students were reportedly invited before the committee, where evidence was reviewed and the accused students interrogated before recommendations were forwarded to the Senate for final approval.
Observers say the decision to enforce the sanctions while examinations are still ongoing appears to be a deliberate move by the university management to demonstrate zero tolerance for academic misconduct and reinforce discipline across the campus.
The development has generated mixed reactions among students and staff. While some have praised the university for taking decisive action against examination malpractice, others expressed concern over the psychological and academic impact of implementing the sanctions in the middle of examinations.
However, the university’s position remains firm that examination malpractice, regardless of timing or circumstance, attracts serious and immediate consequences.
With examinations still underway, invigilators are expected to intensify surveillance across examination halls as the university continues its campaign to uphold academic integrity.
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