Plateau State University Responds to Viral Video of Students Kneeling During Exams
The management of Plateau State University (PLASU) has addressed a viral video showing students kneeling and moving on their knees during an examination period, amid claims that a lecturer allegedly forced them to do so as punishment for arriving late.
University Denies Forced Punishment
In an official statement, PLASU clarified that the students were not compelled to kneel. The incident occurred on February 5, 2026, after the General Studies (GST) examination had officially ended at 3:30 p.m.
According to the university, the students arrived more than 30 minutes late and voluntarily knelt as a plea for mercy, hoping to be allowed to take the exam. The supervising official, upon seeing their display of remorse, intervened, asked them to stand, and granted exceptional permission for them to sit for the exam despite their lateness.
University Highlights Rules and Procedure
PLASU emphasized that the Student Handbook strictly prohibits entry into an exam hall 30 minutes after commencement. Allowing the students to write the test technically bypassed established regulations, though the decision was made to mitigate stress at the Computer-Based Test (CBT) center.
The university also noted concern over the “social media trial”, pointing out that no formal complaint had been lodged with management or the Student Union Government (SUG) before the video circulated online.
Independent Investigation to Follow
To ensure transparency, PLASU announced it will engage independent investigators to examine the incident and determine whether any examination regulations were violated. The university stressed that it remains committed to protecting the human rights and dignity of all students while maintaining fairness in its examination processes.
The statement concluded with a call for calm, urging students, parents, and the public to allow the university to complete its review before drawing conclusions.
Masara Kim
Acting Public Relations Officer
Plateau State University, Bokkos
The full statement reaffirmed PLASU’s dedication to learning, discipline, and character-building, noting efforts are ongoing to address overcrowding and resource challenges at examination centers that can contribute to students’ lateness.
Photos and the video of the incident have continued to circulate online, sparking debate about accountability, student conduct, and social media narratives.
