The Senate of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja), now known as Yakubu Gowon University, has approved a historic academic amnesty aimed at students previously implicated in exam misconduct. This amnesty, covering offenses committed from the 2020/2021 academic year through to the first semester of the 2024/2025 session, was approved during the university’s 189th Regular Senate Meeting on May 28, 2025.

The move follows recommendations from the institution’s Central Examination Misconduct Committee and is supported by the statutory powers granted to the Senate under Section 19(1) of the University of Abuja Act.

In an official press statement, Dr. Habib Yakoob, the Acting Director of Information and University Relations, emphasized that the decision was made in good faith, with no political or group-specific motivations. “The students who benefitted from this amnesty come from all faculties and academic levels,” Dr. Yakoob explained. “The decision was a result of careful deliberation and aims to ensure fairness in academic justice.”

The university remains committed to upholding high disciplinary standards, and Dr. Yakoob reiterated that future misconduct cases would continue to be addressed seriously. He further clarified that the Senate, as the highest academic authority, retains the prerogative to intervene in ongoing cases if deemed necessary.

This amnesty has been widely interpreted as a gesture of reconciliation, designed to reintegrate affected students while reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic growth, fairness, and transparency. “We are committed to ensuring that the academic integrity and values of the university are upheld, while also promoting inclusivity for those who have faced challenges,” Dr. Yakoob concluded.

The University of Abuja’s decision underscores the importance of maintaining fairness and equity within the academic system, particularly in navigating disciplinary processes that may impact students’ futures.