Amnesty International Demands Reversal of Madonna University Students’ Expulsion, Suspension Over TikTok Video

Amnesty International has called on the authorities at Madonna University’s Elele Campus in Rivers State to rescind the expulsion of a final-year nursing student and the suspension of 14 other 500-level students over a viral TikTok video.

The human rights organisation described the sanctions as disproportionate, arguing that harshly punishing the students for “dancing” was unjust.

Amnesty International urged the university to prioritise dialogue and mediation, warning that heavy-handed academic or disciplinary measures could terminate the academic progress of the affected students.

According to the organisation, the students are entitled to the rights to freedom of expression, education and academic freedom, adding that the sanctions could create a chilling effect on the exercise of these rights.

It further called on the university to ensure that its policies and disciplinary procedures conform to international human rights standards.

“Also, the university must uphold the rights of everyone, including the rights to freedom of expression, education and academic freedom,” Amnesty International said.

The organisation maintained that disciplinary measures should be proportionate and consistent with fundamental human rights principles.