By Haliru Idris, Lawrence Okedare and Rukayat Abdulraheem
As students and lecturers of the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) settle down to full academic activities, both new and returning students have been advised to ensure strict adherence to the institution’s rules and regulations or risk severe disciplinary action, including expulsion.
The institution’s Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Morenikeji-Akanmu who gave the advice during an exclusive interview with theheraldnews.ng on issues of students’ conduct and parental concerns about alleged extortion, also described Unilorin students as “responsible and worthy in character”.
He assured parents that the university maintains transparent systems that make it difficult for anyone to exploit others.
“Our students are not into extortion. We train decent students. Parents and students have access to authentic data, and government monitoring systems ensure transparency in all universities,” he explained.
He, however, emphasized that the University maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse, exam malpractice, indecent dressing, and association with unregistered groups.
“Please, play according to the rules,” he cautioned. “Unilorin is a community with its own culture and regulations. Dress properly, attend classes, and avoid unregistered associations. If you are caught in drug use or abuse, the punishment is expulsion. We now conduct blood tests; once confirmed, you’re out. We won’t allow anyone contaminate others.”
The Dean cited late Barrister Akanbi, a respected former administrator of the University, whose signature admonition— “play according to the rules” –continues to guide the institution’s disciplinary philosophy.
He further urged students to focus on their academics and moral integrity, stressing that the University’s disciplinary structure is designed not to punish, but to produce graduates who are “worthy in character and learning”.
“It is better to be Colonel Moridele than General Kusogun,” he said metaphorically. “Meaning, it’s better to be safe and disciplined than be reckless and expelled.”
Reiterating Unilorin’s reputation for academic stability, the Dean advised students to take advantage of the University’s peaceful environment and avoid distractions that could derail their goals.
