A video showing female students at Olabisi Onabanjo University being touched to check for bras before entering an exam hall has triggered widespread outrage and concerns over privacy and rights.
'Outcry Over Controversial Bra Inspection Policy at Nigerian University'
'Outcry Over Controversial Bra Inspection Policy at Nigerian University'
Nigerian university's dress code sparks debate after female students required to prove bra-wearing before exams.
A recent incident at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria has ignited significant public backlash after footage surfaced of female students being subjected to physical checks to confirm whether they were wearing bras prior to participating in an examination. The scene, with female staff members examining students’ chests as they lined up for entry to the examination hall, has raised alarms about the methods used to enforce the institution's dress code.
While the university has not publicly addressed the viral video, a representative from the student union defended the controversial policy as a measure to create "a distraction-free environment" for exams. Despite this justification, widespread criticism has emerged, branding the approach as outdated, sexist, and reminiscent of sexual harassment.
Human rights advocates have urged affected students to consider legal action, with campaign leader Haruna Ayagi emphasizing that any form of unwarranted physical contact constitutes a rights violation. He argued that other, less intrusive methods should be employed to manage dress code compliance without compromising student dignity.
A student, choosing to remain anonymous, expressed concerns about the university's rigorous moral standards, noting that checks on students’ attire are frequent, despite the institution not being religiously affiliated. In an attempt to quell the rising tide of discontent, student union president Muizz Olatunji responded via social media, reiterating the institution's commitment to promoting modest attire in adherence to its core values.
He clarified that the dress code is not a new development, revealing that the student body has been engaging with university officials to explore alternative strategies for encouraging appropriate dress, focusing on ensuring respectful interactions rather than invasive inspections.
Established in 1982 as Ogun State University and later renamed in honor of former state governor Olabisi Onabanjo in 2001, the university's recent policy enforcement has sparked a significant debate about ethics, student rights, and cultural expectations within educational environments.
