OVER 300 AAU MICROBIOLOGY STUDENTS FACE POSSIBLE EXTRA YEAR AS UNIVERSITY CANCELS FINAL EXAMINATION

Graduating Microbiology students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State, may have to spend an additional academic session before completing their studies after the university cancelled their MCB 414 final examination.

The decision followed allegations that the students violated the institution’s regulations on excessive celebrations after completing their final examination.

In an official letter dated October 15, 2026, the university disclosed that its Senate ratified the Vice-Chancellor’s approval to cancel the examination during its 335th regular meeting held on September 23, 2026.

The affected students are expected to retake the examination during the 2026/2027 academic session, subject to payment of the required school fees.

Reacting to the development, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde criticised the decision, describing it as unreasonable and inhumane. He expressed concern that more than 300 students could be forced to spend another academic year before graduating.

Meanwhile, AAU spokesperson Mike Aladenika defended the university’s position, explaining that the regulation was introduced approximately three years ago following incidents involving dangerous post-examination celebrations.

According to him, some students previously climbed onto hired vehicles and drove recklessly around the campus and surrounding areas, resulting in accidents and traffic congestion.

He added that students had been warned that the regulation remained in force but allegedly ignored the warning and continued with the celebrations.

An unnamed lecturer also reportedly confirmed that the latest activities caused traffic obstruction and that some participants were involved in accidents.

The decision has generated mixed reactions, with some people questioning whether students who did not participate in the celebrations should face the same punishment, while others believe the affected students should be allowed to retake the examination immediately.