NANS condemns 'Barbaric' Treatment of students PLASU

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC) Plateau State Axis, has issued a strong condemnation following reports of "inhumane and degrading treatment" meted out to students at Plateau State University, Bokkos.

In a press release dated February 28, 2026, signed by the Chairman, Comb. Bullah Nzaman Luka, the student body revealed that students were allegedly forced to crawl on the ground during ongoing examinations.

Describing the act as "barbaric," NANS stated that such treatment is entirely inconsistent with the values of a tertiary institution and the laws governing educational environments in Nigeria.

"A Dangerous Misuse of Authority"

The NANS leadership made it clear that corporal punishment in any form is unlawful and a gross violation of students' rights.

"Tertiary institutions are centres of learning, research, and character development, not arenas for intimidation, cruelty, or psychological abuse," the statement read. "Such actions do not reflect discipline; they reflect a dangerous misuse of authority and a failure to uphold the standards expected of higher institutions."

A Four-Point Demand

Following the incident, the NANS JCC Plateau State Axis issued an urgent four-point demand to the university management, calling for:

1. An immediate and transparent investigation into the incident.

2. Identification, questioning, and sanctioning of all individuals (staff or security personnel) involved in the "unprofessional and dehumanizing act."

3. An official statement reassuring students and the public of their safety and dignity within the school environment.

4. Preventive measures to ensure such an incident never occurs again.

The "4 C’s of Aluta"

In their response, the student body has vowed to apply the "4 C’s of Aluta" to ensure justice: Consultation with relevant authorities; Consolidation of internal structures for a coordinated response; Communication with students and the public; and Confrontation within the bounds of the law if peaceful approaches fail.

"Students are the heartbeat of every educational institution, and their welfare must be protected at all times," NANS emphasized. "We will not tolerate any form of intimidation, harassment, or abuse."

As of the time of this report, the management of Plateau State University, Bokkos, has not yet issued a public response to the allegations. NANS has called on stakeholders, civil society organizations, and government bodies to stand with them in demanding accountability.