OAU speaks on ‘viral dress code’
REPUBLICAN NIGERIA gathered that the management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has clarified that a widely circulated dress code policy is only a draft and has not been officially approved by the institution’s governing council.
The draft policy, which appeared online earlier this week, lists a series of prohibited fashion choices and personal styles, including dreadlocks, nose rings, heavy makeup, multi-coloured hairstyles, male hair braiding, sagging trousers, tattoos, and crop tops. It also proposed penalties such as suspension for one or two semesters for violations.
However, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, said in a statement on Thursday that the document is still under review and not yet in effect.
“So we have not finalised so many things there, but some people just smuggled it out to alert the public. The management is currently applying finishing touches to the proposed code and will officially release it once concluded,” Olarewaju said.
He explained that the intent behind the code is to align students’ conduct and appearance with the university’s tradition of producing graduates of character and learning.
“There is no way somebody can be rewarding learning and character without some degree of decency, particularly in the mode of dressing,” he added.
The leaked draft also includes bans on transparent clothing, bum shorts, off-shoulder and low-cleavage tops, tattered jeans, and any clothing with “obscene” messages. It further outlines restrictions against hairstyles with inscriptions, use of cowries, unconventional wearing of face caps, and displays of physical affection such as hugging or kissing on campus.
Reacting to the draft policy, the OAU Students’ Union firmly rejected the proposed dress code, calling it “outdated, repressive, and unconstitutional.”
In a joint statement signed by Union President Adelaide David, Secretary General Habeeb Oke, and Public Relations Officer Olowosile Joseph, the union called for the immediate withdrawal of the draft.
“The Great Ife Students’ Union is reaffirming its strong opposition to the trending alleged university management’s consideration of a dress code policy,” the statement read.
Citing past instances, including similar circulars in 2023 which were later refuted by management, the union described the measures as a violation of students’ freedom of expression and individuality.
“The policy stifles and violates students’ fundamental rights to freedom of expression, personal style, and individuality. We call on students to stand together in unity against the dress code and any measures that seek to undermine their rights,” the statement added.
The union further accused the university of failing to engage in proper dialogue before introducing such policies and pledged to remain vigilant in defending student rights.
As of now, the university has yet to release an official version of the dress code.
