- Violation earns suspension
By John Dike, Osogbo
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, will henceforth rusticate any of its students found guilty of wearing sagging trousers, hugging or kissing in public, and wearing bum shorts or unkempt clothing, among other infractions.
The University’s management announced these disciplinary measures in a revised dress code meant to check the deepening immorality especially among the youths.
Approved by the university’s Governing Council and dated June 13, 2025, the announcement followed recommendations from the Student Affairs Division, and the Legal Review Committee.
The measures aim to uphold public decency and improve campus security, according to university sources.
Offences that now attract one-semester rustication include wearing dreadlocks, crop tops, sagging trousers, tattoos, dirty or torn clothes, and bum shorts. Public displays of affection such as hugging or kissing member of the opposite sex.
Others include wearing coloured hairstyles and “sexually provocative” outfits.
More serious or repeat violations such as “unwelcome touching” or dyed hair may lead to rustication for up to two semesters.
Despite the institution’s justification, the new code has sparked outrage among students.
The Students’ Union has rejected the policy, labeling it unconstitutional and a violation of students’ fundamental rights.
In a statement signed by President-elect Adelani Oluwatodimu, Secretary-General-elect Habeeb Isa, and Public Relations Officer-elect Olowosile Oreoluwa, the union condemned the policy as oppressive and outdated.
“The imposition of rustication for what the university deems ‘misconduct’ is harsh, discriminatory, and infringes on our constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of expression, thought, conscience, movement, and personal liberty,” the union said.
The union recalled a similar policy proposal in 2023 that was ultimately withdrawn following student protests. It warned that any attempt to enforce the new dress code would be met with resistance.
“We urge the university administration to withdraw this punitive directive and engage students in dialogue over policies that affect their rights and freedoms,” the statement added.
Calling for unity among students, the union vowed to resist any measure that seeks to regulate appearance or identity under the guise of morality or discipline.
It also appealed to all stakeholders to protect the university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and academic freedom.
