How OOU Applicants Were Allegedly Forced to Cut Hair Before Post-UTME

Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, has come under fire after applicants seeking admission into the institution were allegedly forced to cut off their dreadlocks and braids before being allowed to sit for the Post-UTME examination.

A viral video posted on X (formerly Twitter) by @NigeriaStories showed male candidates being shaved at the entrance of the exam venue while others queued to enter. The footage has triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians describing the policy as discriminatory, archaic, and unrelated to academic performance.

“Isn’t there some kind of rights violation in this?” asked user @Naija_PR. Another, @Sire_Sammi, questioned: “If foreigners with long hair applied, would this archaic school force them to cut it too? What’s the link between hairstyle and academic excellence?”

Critics also accused the institution of abuse of power. “Applicants, not even admitted students. This is an abuse of power. How does someone’s hairstyle affect the university?” wrote @FindingSolace. Similarly, @TruthBeTold001 said: “OOU’s haircut mandate is another example of universities clinging to outdated rules instead of improving education quality or infrastructure.”

Some users tied the action to class privilege. “Imagine say commissioner son dey there, you think say dem go cut he hair? Mad people in authority,” fumed @Eghosa_Igbins. Another user, @avdo69, argued: “Dreadlocks and braids don’t block brains from passing exams. This obsession with appearances over substance is why our system struggles to progress.”

However, a minority defended the school’s action. “Very good. It’s not a must to write OOU entrance exams. Those with dreadlocks should go back home and try another school if they can’t cut their dreads,” said @giant_xtal.

Beyond the debate on hairstyles, many Nigerians expressed concern about misplaced priorities in the education sector. “So education is now about hairstyle? This is why Nigerian schools keep producing graduates that can cram but can’t think,” lamented @Lecumberri.

Others questioned the lack of prior notice. “Were they informed before they got to the venue? Say they pass, what if they have other options of schools and they go somewhere else?” asked @onyinoyibrims.

As of press time, OOU management has yet to issue an official statement on the controversy.