OAU Students’ Union Blow Hot Over Alleged Dress Code Policy, Rejects Rustication Threats

The Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has fiercely condemned the university management’s renewed move to enforce a dress code policy that carries harsh sanctions for perceived violations.

In a public statement titled “Renewed Objection to Alleged Dress Code by University Council and Management”, the Union described the proposed sanctions, such as rustication for one or two semesters for certain styles of dressing—as archaic, draconian, and unconstitutional.

The Union recalled previous misleading circulars in 2023 and subsequent management clarifications, insisting that such dress code measures violate students’ fundamental rights. “These documents proposed harsh sanctions, which we view as an infringement on our freedom of expression,” the statement reads.

The Union emphasized that OAU, as a citadel of learning, must remain a space that allows for individuality and personal liberty. They cited Sections 35, 37, 38, 41, and 42 of the Nigerian Constitution, asserting that the policy may infringe on students’ privacy, expression, religion, movement, and protection from discrimination. Calling on management to retrace its steps as it did in 2023, the Union urged total rejection of the dress code initiative. They also rallied students to stand united against any policies that “undermine our rights and heritage.” The statement was signed by the President-elect, Secretary General-elect, and Public Relations Officer-elect of the Great Ife Students’ Union.