Controversy has trailed Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, following reports that the institution mandated some candidates to cut off their dreadlocks and braids before they were allowed to sit for the Post-UTME examination.
According to multiple accounts circulating on social media, several prospective students were turned back at the university’s screening centre and told they would not be permitted to take the exam unless they trimmed or cut their hair.
The directive reportedly affected male candidates with dreadlocks as well as female candidates with braided extensions. Some of the applicants allegedly had to hurriedly visit nearby barbershops to comply before being admitted into the examination hall.
Parents, students, and rights advocates have since expressed outrage, describing the policy as discriminatory and outdated. Critics argue that hairstyles have no bearing on academic ability or moral character, insisting that such measures could discourage prospective students.
