Nigerian University Sparks Outrage Over Bra Checks Before Exams

June 26, 2025

Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria has sparked outrage after a viral video showed female students being checked for bras before entering exams. The student union leader Muizz Olanrewaju Olatunji defended this practice, stating it aligns with the university's dress code policy aimed at maintaining a "respectful and distraction-free environment. " Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong condemned the policy as "draconian" and potentially constituting sexual harassment, noting it fails to consider medical reasons why some students might not wear bras.

Who is affected

Female students at Olabisi Onabanjo University
The university's administration
The women conducting the bra checks
The broader university community

What action is being taken

Women at the university are physically checking female students for bras before allowing them into exams
The student union leader is defending the policy on social media
Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong is speaking out against the practice
Talks are ongoing between student leadership and university administration to explore alternative approaches

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about student dignity, bodily autonomy, and potential sexual harassment in educational settings. The policy enforces strict dress codes that disproportionately affect female students and may violate their rights to privacy and dignity. There could be medical reasons why some students don't wear bras, making the blanket policy problematic. The controversy highlights tensions between traditional values around "modest" dress and students' personal freedoms in Nigerian higher education.

What's next

Talks are ongoing between the student union and OOU's administration "to explore alternative approaches to addressing indecent dressing, focusing on respectful and dignified interactions between students and staff."

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint