Olabisi

Olabisi Onabanjo University's ' no bra, no exam's rule sparks Nigeria outrage.

The "No-bra, no-exam" rule at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria has sparked intense outrage after a video showed female staff members touching students' chests to check if they were wearing bras before exams. 

By Rhalialt Arhuoizah 

Here's what's happening :
- University's Defense: The university's students' union president, Muizz Olatunji, defended the policy, saying it's part of the institution's dress code aimed at maintaining a "distraction-free environment". He added that the policy isn't new and is intended to promote modesty.
- Criticism and Concerns: Many have condemned the policy as archaic, sexist, and likened it to sexual assault. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong described the policy as "draconic" and "arbitrary", saying it could amount to sexual harassment. Some students have also expressed concerns about the university's strict moral code.
- Potential Consequences: Haruna Ayagi, a senior official at the Human Rights Network, warned that students could sue the university for violating their rights, as unwarranted touches on another person's body could lead to legal action.
- Calls for Alternative Approaches: The students' union has engaged with the institution to explore alternative approaches to addressing indecent dressing, focusing on respectful and dignified interactions between students and staff.

*Reactions on Social Media:
- Some users have denounced the practice as harassment and a human rights violation, while others have defended the checks, saying it's inappropriate for women to go into public spaces without wearing a bra.
- The online row has sparked a heated debate about the policy, with many calling for the university to reconsider its approach.

SIMILAR STORIES

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Advertisement

Poll