UDUS’s Attack on Student Journalism: A Threat to Free Speech, by Hayatullahi Folorunsho Mudathir

In a disturbing setback for student journalism in Nigeria, the management of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), has suspended all the activities of the leading and most prominent press outlet on the campus, Pen Press. This dangerous decision, triggered by a now-deleted story published by the media outlet on August 2, highlighting the students’ plights over the deplorable drainage conditions in a hall of residence (Zamfara Hostel), is a blatant attack on student journalism and a threat to free speech on campus.

Pen Press is a Voice of Nigerian Students

It’s pertinent to note that, student journalism plays a vital and indispensable role in university communities by providing a platform for students to voice their concerns, hold administrations accountable, and promote transparency. Pen Press, among the five press boards under the National Association of Campus Journalists, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (NACJ, UDUS), has long been a cornerstone of UDUS and many other Nigerian institutions, serving as a voice for the voiceless, watchdog for students and a source of unbiased information across the country, promoting justice, encouraging timely, factual information dissemination and lauding the developmental success and achievements of the institution and its community members within and outside the country.

The Unjust Suspension of Pen Press and Impact on Students

The management’s suspension of Pen Press, based on accusations of “factual inaccuracies” “misleading information” and “potential harm to the university’s reputation,” as contained in the  letter addressed to the editor-in-chief of the Press, is a thinly veiled attempt to silence critical voices. The real issue is not the accuracy of the reporting but the university’s reluctance to address the underlying problems, despite valid concerns raised by the report titled: “UDUS students face wrath of poor drainage” which exposed the deplorable living conditions in the hostel believed to be one of the largest female halls of residence in the university, housing over 500 occupants.

According to the report, the poor drainage system particularly in blocks A and C which causes water to splash on students and the closeness between the wastewater and the drinking water taps, have a direct impact on the health and well-being of the students. The unsanitary condition is a serious health hazard as it creates a breeding ground for diseases and makes it difficult for students to carry out basic daily activities. As one student described, “It’s nearly impossible to carry out basic activities like washing and cooking without getting drenched by dirty water.”

The university’s decision to suspend Pen Press instead of addressing these pressing issues is a gross misstep. The problems in Zamfara Hostel are not just about discomfort; they are about the health and safety of the  students. By silencing Pen Press, the university is not only suppressing student voices but also neglecting the needs of its students. The management should be prioritizing solutions rather than silencing Pen Press and other ‘students-voices platformsʼ that torch light to these issues.

Why UDUS Journalists Should be supported Rather Than Being Suppressed

The 21st century universities should be citadels of free speech, where ideas can be freely expressed and debated. Student journalists play a crucial role in fostering such environment. By reporting on issues that affect the student body, they contribute to a more informed and engaged campus community, but suppressing these voices undermines the very purpose of higher education and discourages students from participating in meaningful extracurricular discourses.

The management in its letter, noted that “While the intention behind the article may have been to address important issues, the manner in which it was presented has raised significant concerns within the university administration.

“The concerns include factual inaccuracies or misleading information, potential harm to the university’s reputation, and failure to adhere to journalistic standards and university policies.

“In view of the above, Pen Press’s activities are hereby suspended until further notice. During this suspension period, Pen Press is required to cease all publications and distribution of content and to refrain from conducting interviews or gathering news,” the letter reads in part.

However, instead of punishing these student journalists, UDUS management should be supporting them either through the collaboration with the Department of Mass Communication or the recently established campus radio (UDUS Radio) by providing training in journalistic ethics and standards, offering resources to help them conduct thorough, accurate and factual reporting that promotes the interest and integrity of the university. When student journalism is supported on campus, the entire university community benefits from a more transparent and accountable administration.

A Call for Pen Press Reinstatement and Reform of Campus Journalism

The suspension of Pen Press is a step in the wrong direction for UDUS management. The suspension is a clear attack on freedom of the press and a disservice to the UDUS community. It has also fueled more concerns over press freedom in Nigeria, with many Nigerians expressing their displeasure over the decision, as the action could further show how attacks on journalists in Nigeria could ironically take their roots from learning institutions– where journalists undergoing training are expected to be well-groomed for the tasks ahead, most especially, the Mass Communication students.

Universities should be fostering a culture of critical thinking and open dialogue, not silencing those who dare to speak out. Furthermore, the UDUS management should take urgent action to address the pressing issues in Zamfara Hostel and ensure that students have a safe and healthy living environment.

On a final note, the university should immediately reinstate the student-run news outlet and commit to protecting the rights of student journalists. By reinstating Pen Press and addressing the underlying issues, UDUS can demonstrate its commitment to academic freedom and the well-being of its community members.

Hayatullahi Folorunsho Mudathir is a graduate of UDUS and immediate past Editor-in-Chief of Pen Press.