Nigerian university faces criticism over ‘draconian policy’

International

A UNIVERSITY in southwestern Nigeria is under scrutiny after a viral video appeared to show female students being checked if they were wearing bras before being allowed to take their exams.

A report by CNN said that the short clip, shared widely on social media, shows two women appearing to touch female students as they pass by in a queue. Students later confirmed to CNN that the video was filmed at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ogun State. One student in the video appears to be removed from the line after being checked.

While CNN has not confirmed when the video was taken, a student representative said exams began this week and referred to the alleged checks as part of a “no bra, no entry” policy.

The university has not issued a public statement or responded to CNN’s requests for comment. However, student union leader Muizz Olanrewaju Olatunji defended the policy on X, stating that it reflects OOU’s dress code aimed at promoting modesty and a respectful academic environment. He cited the university’s definition of indecent dressing, which includes exposing parts such as “breasts, buttocks, nipples, and belly-buttons.”

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong criticized the policy as “draconian” and possibly constituting sexual harassment, noting that physical checks of students’ bodies are degrading and may have legal consequences.

He also pointed out that there may be valid personal or medical reasons for not wearing a bra.

Olatunji later said that discussions are ongoing with university officials to explore alternative, respectful ways to implement dress code policies.(Jocel Tuanson, CNU Comm Intern)