Delta State University Rusticates Student Over Viral TikTok Video

The Delta State University, Abraka, has suspended a 200-level Biotechnology student, Ezi Ugoma, for four semesters following the circulation of a TikTok video showing a dying student at the institution’s Health Centre. According to an official letter dated October 21, 2025, the university found Ugoma guilty of breaching her matriculation oath by filming and posting the sensitive footage online. The disciplinary committee held multiple sessions in August before concluding that her conduct amounted to gross misconduct and a violation of the school’s code of conduct.

The rustication, approved by Vice-Chancellor Professor Samuel O. Asagba and conveyed through the office of the Principal Assistant Registrar (Students), takes effect from the 2025/2026 academic session. Ugoma will only be eligible to return in the 2027/2028 session. The letter noted that copies of the decision were forwarded to her sponsors and other relevant university bodies for record purposes. The management emphasized that the institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy for actions that compromise the dignity and privacy of students.

Reactions have continued to trail the decision, with broadcast journalist Oseni Rufai taking to his X handle to call for leniency. He argued that the punishment was excessive and appealed to the university to reconsider. Rufai maintained that Ugoma’s post had been intended as a cautionary message against abortion rather than an act of malice, urging the Vice-Chancellor not to let “this young lady’s future be shattered.”

Amid the controversy, sources close to the student revealed growing tension within her family. Ugoma’s stepfather reportedly reacted furiously to the development, allegedly telling her to abandon her studies and prepare to return to their village.