The recent renaming of Benue State University (BSU), Makurdi, to Reverend Father Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM) has triggered widespread criticism and emotional reactions from students, alumni and members of the general public.
The name change followed the passage of a law by the Benue State House of Assembly and signed into law by Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia on December 30, 2024.
According to a memo from the Office of the Registrar, the decision is now legally in effect, and all official correspondence must reflect the new name.
While the renaming is intended to honor the late Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu, a former governor and founding figure of the university, the development has been met with backlash from concerned stakeholders who feel the change is unnecessary and politically motivated.
Several students and alumni have voiced their displeasure, citing a lack of public consultation, the impracticality of the new name, and fears that the university’s identity and legacy are being erased.
Christy Emmanuel, a graduate of the institution, wrote: “Please, those responsible for the change of name should not take us backward. That name is off it. BENSU sounds better. If you wish to honour your kinsman, why not build another university and name it after him? You are being tribalistic.”;;
Daniel Innocent questioned the priorities of the government, saying: “What benefit does changing the name bring to the people? We are talking of development and investment in technology—not name changes. Politicians don see us finish.”;;
Emmanuel, a concerned citizen, criticized the religious overtones: “The school is not a Catholic school. Why give it that name? Someone overseas hearing that name will think it’s a school in the backward part of Nigeria. Please rescind your decision. We don’t want that name that is so mouthful!”;;
John Mathias Eihoda expressed disappointment over the erasure of institutional legacy: “This is one thing I hate the most. For me, it feels like the university, plus all its track record, is no more in existence. Why can’t we stop this rubbish for goodness’ sake?”;;
He also argued that the new name violates conventional standards: “The title is not acceptable in the name of a university. It should simply be Moses Orshio Adasu University, in line with NUC-approved nomenclatures.”;;
Despite the backlash, the university management maintains that the decision aligns with state policy and pays tribute to Rev. Fr. Adasu’s foundational role in the institution’s establishment. The memo emphasized that the university will continue to deliver quality education under its new name.
