Student Suspended With “Speech And Hearing Challenges” Files N20m Lawsuit Against University

A female student who was expelled by the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, in 2015, for having “speech and hearing challenges” has sued the institution for damages to the tune of N20 million.

Jane Ottah, 28,‎ said the damages were for the trauma, embarrassment, and emotional distress caused by her expulsion.

In court papers filed at the Rivers State High Court and seen by Premium Times, Ms. Ottah also demanded that the university provide the necessary support services and facilities to aid her learning. She further demanded a perpetual injunction restraining the university or their agents from discriminating against her in any way.

The court has fixed February 19 for hearing. Ms. Ottah, a former student at the Department of Educational Foundation at the university, was expelled on January 30, 2015, over claims that she had speech and hearing challenges.

“I am directed to state that during your recent medical examination in the Health Services Department, it was observed that you are medically challenged and have hearing and speech difficulties,” the university stated in a letter to Ms. Ottah signed by C.M Ewhorlu, Principal Assistant Registrar (Senate).

“You are therefore advised to hand over all University property(ies) in your possession to your Head of Department and thereafter leave the campus.”

Ms. Ottah said her ambition of reaching the “highest point possible academically” notwithstanding her disability was frustrated by the university.‎

“The Applicant, notwithstanding her disability (hearing impairment) has a burning desire for education – a desire she pursued such that she acquired primary education, secondary education where she passed eight subjects at a sitting,” Ms. Ottah said in a court affidavit.

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