Tension is rising at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) as several students allege that the institution is deliberately tampering with their online portals to block access to their NELFUND loan refunds.
According to multiple students who spoke to SaharaReporters, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) had already released the approved refunds to the university on behalf of successful applicants. However, instead of receiving the funds, students claim their refunds were siphoned off through what they describe as “fraudulent portal adjustments.”
Alleged Manipulation of Student Portals
One final-year Law student revealed how the manipulation works:
“We were supposed to complete five academic sessions (100 to 500 level) and pay fees accordingly. But shockingly, the school inserted an extra ‘200 level,’ making it six sessions in total. Now, they claim our refunds are being used to settle this fabricated debt.”
The student added that he had already written to the management about the issue three weeks ago, but nothing has been done.
Another student explained that the university inserted a new ‘UG2’ level into their portal, which automatically deducted the refund as if it was clearing an existing debt.
“We never owed the school, yet they used the refund to offset a fake balance. We even reported to the MIS (Management Information System) office and wrote complaints, but weeks later, nothing has been resolved.”
Refund amounts reportedly range from ₦70,000 to ₦100,000, depending on the student’s faculty and program. A Law student confirmed his refund of ₦94,560 had already been removed under this adjustment.
Management’s Response
When contacted, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Umar Aliyu, acknowledged receiving several complaints. He stated that the matter had been forwarded to the Director of MIS for clarification.
Prof. Aliyu assured that:
“No student will be denied what is due to them. Students should approach the Director of MIS directly for clarification, and in case of further difficulties, they can come to me.”
However, he also dismissed the claims as “mere speculations.”
Despite these assurances, many students remain doubtful, describing the university’s silence and delay as a possible attempt to cover up financial mismanagement.
What’s Next?
The situation remains unresolved, leaving affected students anxious about whether their refunds will ever be released. With NELFUND meant to ease financial burdens for Nigerian students, UDUS undergraduates are demanding urgent transparency and accountability from the school management.
Jamflash will continue monitoring this story as it unfolds.
