Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has firmly debunked a widely circulated memo that claimed the university had introduced a harsh new dress code banning what it labeled as “indecent dressing.” The institution, through its Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, described the document as fake, unauthorized, and not reflective of any current policy.
The memo, dated June 13 and bearing a forged university reference number, went viral earlier this week across social media platforms. Styled to resemble an official notice from the university’s Division of Students’ Affairs, it claimed that effective August 1, students would be sanctioned for wearing items such as ripped jeans, crop tops, off-shoulder dresses, sagged trousers, dreadlocks, and even for engaging in public displays of affection. Offenders, it claimed, risked suspension or rustication for up to two semesters.
University Responds
In a swift reaction, OAU distanced itself from the memo, describing it as unauthorized and unofficial.
“That circular did not emanate from the university management. It should be disregarded,” said Abiodun Olanrewaju, the university’s spokesperson.
“Although a dress code proposal is under review, it has not been approved or released as official policy. Any document circulating online is at best a leaked draft or outright forgery.”
Draft Policy, Not Law
Further investigation reveals that the so-called circular mirrors a draft previously floated within university administrative circles — but never approved by the governing council. According to reports by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), a similar draft surfaced in 2023 but was discredited after causing similar controversy.
University sources confirmed that while the issue of dress code reform has been discussed internally, no official regulation has been enacted.
“No student will be punished for violating a dress code that does not legally exist,” one administrative official stated anonymously.
Students Union Rejects Draft
Reacting to the viral document, the OAU Students’ Union released a strongly worded statement rejecting the proposed dress code draft, describing it as “oppressive, outdated, and unconstitutional.”
“The attempt to police how students dress infringes on their rights and has no place in a liberal academic community,” said a statement signed by the union’s president.
Experts Warn on Digital Misinformation
Digital rights advocates have raised red flags about the growing trend of forged institutional documents gaining traction online. With the aid of design apps and AI, false memos have become more convincing — and more dangerous.
“This is why universities must act fast and clearly when misinformation spreads,” said media analyst Tolu Awoniyi.
“Trust is eroded when the silence lasts longer than the panic.”
Conclusion
Obafemi Awolowo University has assured students, staff, and the public that no dress code enforcement is currently in effect, and any legitimate policy updates will be communicated through official channels only.
The university urges the public to verify all information via its website and verified social media handles to avoid falling victim to fake news.