The Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, has come under public scrutiny after mandating candidates sitting for its Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME) to shave off dreadlocks and braided hairstyles before being allowed into the exam halls.
In a video that surfaced on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, some applicants were seen getting their hair cut within the school premises, while others loitered around the campus awaiting the commencement of the test.
The decision, seen as an extension of the school’s strict dress code to non-students, has ignited heated debate among Nigerians. While some defended the move as a matter of discipline and decency, others described it as discriminatory, outdated, and unnecessary, especially for individuals who are not yet admitted into the institution.
One user, @FilipoSaga, defended the policy, saying: “It is not insane, my people. If you know they do not tolerate dreads and braids, then attend other universities. Life no hard.”
However, many others strongly criticized the development. @fortunateozuyak queried: “What if the person no come get the admission???” while @FLACKO_VVS asked: “Wetin concern dreads and braids with Post-UTME? Is it a Christian school?”
Another critic, @vitalsfx1, described the action as discriminatory: “That’s completely backward thinking. Education is supposed to be about your mind, not your hairstyle. Forcing applicants to cut their dreads or braids before even sitting for an exam is discrimination, plain and simple.”
Some voices, however, saw merit in the regulation. @oxfmilan argued: “It’s not insane imo, dress healthy and neatly for a professional activity. You need to see how some people dressed to a CBT examination. You’re not going to the club bro.”
But others called the policy unfair and regressive. LaVidaMercy maintained that hairstyle is part of personal identity: “This is unfair. Hairstyle is part of personal identity – forcing students to cut it off for an exam is unnecessary and disrespectful.”
@Qnero added: “What’s their problem with hair? We’re in the 21st century, for Christ’s sake.”
More reactions poured in, with @farmacistbeejay asking: “They have not gained admission yet, what about when they gain admission?” and @lawansonsegun1 lamenting: “Education, meant to liberate minds, now enslaves students. This is why Nigerians can’t fight bad governance; schools are now tools of subjugation.”
As the debate continues, OOU authorities are yet to issue an official statement addressing the viral video and the policy’s application to admission seekers.
