From Gate Checks to Exam Bans: The Rising Tension Over Dress Codes in Nigerian Campuses

On March 13, 2026, several female students of Kaduna Polytechnic were denied entry into the school premises after security officials enforced the university’s dress code at the campus gate.

In a video circulated on social media, a female student alleged that she and others were stopped by security personnel stationed at the gate because their outfits were considered inappropriate. She said the officials justified the action by referencing the Ramadan Fast.

“They said that because they are fasting, we should cover our bodies. Do they want us to wear cardigans in this heat? We are not secondary school students,” the student lamented.

The incident sparked online reactions, but it also reflects a broader growing pattern in Nigerian universities where dress codes are being enforced in ways that raise questions about students rights, institutional control, and cultural expectations.

A Pattern Across Campuses

The Kaduna Polytechnic case is not an isolated one. Across Nigeria, universities  have reinforced or introduced dress code policies aimed at promoting what they describe as decency and discipline.

In January 2023, Lagos State University directed lecturers to deny students access to lecture halls over indecent dressing. A circular outlined prohibited clothing, including revealing outfits, tattered jeans, saggy trousers and outfits with obscene inscriptions.  It also extended to hairstyles, and accessories. 

Similarly, Baze University introduced restrictions banning saggy trousers, dark shades and certain hairstyles, stating that such measures were necessary to maintain decorum on campus. 

At Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, enforcement has been notably strict. In 2019, the university installed a billboard illustrating approved dress standards and enforced compliance across campus spaces. 

More controversially, in June 2025, students at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ogun State reported incidents where female students were subjected to physical checks to determine if they were wearing bras during examination. 

While students claim the practice has persisted over time, it is not explicitly stated in official conduct guidelines. 

Together, these examples highlight a nationwide trend: universities are not only setting standards for appearance but are also increasingly active in enforcing them.

Students Navigate Between Acceptance and Resistance

Students’ responses to these policies are mixed due to personal experiences, cultural backgrounds and varying institutional environments.

Mustapha Bashir, a second-year Islamic Studies student at Kwara State University (KWASU), believes dress codes can promote discipline and reduce distractions, though he acknowledges the influence of peer pressure and social expectations on student behaviour.

“Students are well-behaved and respectful, though some fall into negative habits due to social influence. While there is no oppression, there are cases of pride and comparison among students from different universities,’’ he said.

Similarly, Solaudeen Abbas, a student of Usmanu Danfodiyo University from the Department of Curriculum Studies, argues that institutional rules are shaped by broader societal values.

According to him, “The university authority or community as a whole cannot go against the rules of the State they are located, ‘’students accept these conditions upon admission, making compliance part of their responsibility.’’ 

He added that there are exceptions for some groups based on religion, noting that students may only be challenged if their dressing contradicts their religious beliefs.

Some students highlighted the role of the environment in shaping behaviour. Adebayo Fatimah, a final-year Microbiology student at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), described her institution as one that promotes discipline not just academically, but in character and appearance.

“UNILORIN is not just a place where degrees are earned; it nurtures the mind. The institution is built on dignity, discipline, and academic excellence. From the first day, students understand that success is not measured by academics alone but also by character,” she said.

She noted that the university promotes discipline in both behaviour and dressing.

“Dress codes are respected, and students are constantly reminded that character is as important as Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). During exams, students who dress inappropriately may be sent back to change. No one feels oppressed, and everyone relates well,” she stated.

Discipline, Culture, and Questions of Control

University authorities often justify dress codes as necessary for maintaining order, professionalism, and a conducive learning environment. 

Professor Umar Aliyu, Dean of Student Affairs at UDUS, stated that students who violate dress regulations may face sanctions, including being barred from examinations or having items confiscated. 

In his words, “Students must follow the university’s dress code and conduct, during examinations, students who dress against the code may have their phones or exam cards seized until they comply.’’

“Students with long nails or inappropriate hairstyles may also be barred from writing exams,” he said,’’ adding that students’ behaviours are often considered during their clearance and certification process.

However, the Kaduna Polytechnic incident suggests that enforcement methods may sometimes exceed institutional guidelines. In its response, the school management clarified that the affected students’ outfits appeared appropriate and should not have warranted denial of access. 

The institution also announced an investigation into the matter, emphasising that enforcement must not be arbitrary or extreme. These tensions highlight a deeper issue where the line lies between promoting discipline and infringing on personal expression. 

Legal Concerns

Enebeli, Managing Partner at Enebeli & Partners Legal, Lagos, acknowledged that universities have the authority to enforce dress codes to maintain discipline, order, and decorum. 

However, he stressed that such authority is not absolute and must operate within the framework of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 and other applicable laws.

Citing Section 34(1) of the Constitution, he noted that every individual is guaranteed the right to dignity of the human person, which prohibits degrading or humiliating treatment. 

According to him, any form of physical inspection of sensitive parts of a student’s body, especially in a public setting, raises critical concerns about degrading treatment, invasion of privacy, and unlawful interference with bodily autonomy.

He explained that while institutions may regulate students’ appearance, the methods used to enforce compliance must be lawful, reasonable, proportionate, and respectful of fundamental rights. 

“Discipline cannot be achieved through measures that embarrass, humiliate, or physically intrude on students’ bodies without proper legal justification and safeguards,” he said.

Enebeli warned that such practices could expose institutions and their officials to civil liability for violating students’ rights to dignity, privacy, and personal liberty. 

He advised universities to adopt enforcement mechanisms that avoid physical intrusion or public embarrassment, noting that any compliance procedures must be handled with utmost respect for students’ dignity.

Abdulrasheed Aishah

+ postsBio ⮌

This author does not have any more posts