The management of CUSTECH deserves commendation for its firm stance in expelling students found culpable of indecent conduct and suspending those involved in violence. In an era where indiscipline threatens the fabric of our educational institutions, such decisive action is essential to preserving order, standards, and the integrity of academic environments.
That said, the decision to publish the faces of the affected students raises serious concerns. Public shaming, while intended as a deterrent, often unleashes grave and unintended consequences. It exposes young people to mob aggression, online harassment, and irreparable reputational damage. In extreme cases, the weight of humiliation can push vulnerable individuals toward tragic outcomes, including suicide. Families, too, bear an unbearable stigma in our closely knit society, where one person’s disgrace can shadow an entire household for years.
We must move beyond punitive spectacles. What our institutions and society truly need are structured rehabilitation centers — dedicated spaces where erring youths can receive counseling, moral reorientation, skills training, and genuine opportunities to recalibrate their values and sense of responsibility. Discipline should correct, not destroy. Rehabilitation offers a path to redemption that benefits both the individual and the wider community.
On a personal note, I continue to grapple with same-sex attraction, which conflicts deeply with the beliefs and values I was raised on. This internal struggle only reinforces my conviction that young people, navigating complex pressures and identities, deserve guidance and support rather than public condemnation.
True institutional strength lies not just in enforcing rules, but in fostering environments where mistakes become opportunities for growth. Let us uphold discipline without sacrificing humanity.
– Dr. Asuku Sufyan Onimisi writes from Okene.
