A recent incident at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria has caused a stir after a video surfaced showing female students being checked to see if they were wearing bras before entering an exam hall. The footage, which went viral, shows female staff touching the students’ chests as they lined up to take their exams.
The university has not issued an official statement regarding the video. However, a student leader defended the practice, stating it is part of the university’s dress code designed to create a "distraction-free environment." While he acknowledged the backlash, he suggested that alternative methods should be considered to enforce the policy, which many have criticized as outdated and inappropriate.
Human Rights Network, a campaign group, condemned the practice, stating that such physical checks could lead to legal action for violating personal rights. Haruna Ayagi, a senior official from the group, emphasized that unwarranted touching is a violation and that the university’s approach to enforcing dress codes is misguided.
A student, who chose to remain anonymous, shared her frustration about the university’s strict moral code, which she feels is excessive, especially since the institution is not religiously affiliated. She mentioned that students often face scrutiny over their clothing choices.
In response to the backlash, Muizz Olatunji, the president of the student union, took to social media to clarify that the dress code aims to maintain respect and minimize distractions. He noted that the policy is not new and that the student union is working with the university to find more respectful ways to address issues of indecent dressing.
The dress code includes rules against wearing clothing that could provoke lustful thoughts, highlighting the university’s commitment to modesty. Olabisi Onabanjo University, located in Ogun State, was established in 1982 and named after a former governor in 2001.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about women’s rights and personal autonomy in educational settings, with many calling for a reevaluation of such policies.