Students React to AAUA's Crackdown on Indecent Dressing

By Tofunmi Oyekanmi & Jesupelumi Adesua

The recent enforcement of Adekunle Ajasin University's dress code by the institution's security unit has continued to generate mixed reactions among students, with some applauding the move while others question the manner of its implementation.

In recent weeks, security personnel have intensified checks at the university gates, preventing students whose outfits are considered indecent from gaining access to the campus. 

Under the university's dress code, clothing such as short dresses, leggings, revealing outfits, ripped jeans, sleeveless tops, as well as hairstyles deemed inappropriate, including long braids worn loosely and uncombed or locked hair, may attract sanctions. Affected students are often asked to return home or change their appearance before being allowed into the campus.

Speaking on the development, Benita, a 100-level Biochemistry student, described the measure as necessary, saying it would encourage students to comply with the institution's rules.

"I wore something that was against the rule and was asked to go back home. It was understandable because I was wrong," she said.

Similarly, David, a 200-level Guidance and Counselling student, supported the policy, noting that it could help reduce indecent dressing on campus. He, however, urged the university to ensure that the enforcement extends beyond the school gate if it is to achieve its intended purpose.

Mariam, a 400-level Industrial Chemistry student, also welcomed the initiative but appealed to security personnel to adopt a more respectful approach when dealing with students.

"The measure is good because it will encourage people to dress better. However, the security officers should not be harsh in the way they address students, as that will not necessarily make them change their dressing habits," she said.

Despite the support from some quarters, several students expressed concerns over what they described as inconsistent enforcement of the policy. Some alleged that the rules are applied selectively, claiming that students with certain body types are more likely to be stopped for wearing leggings, while others dressed similarly are allowed into the campus. Others said the manner in which security personnel confront students is often embarrassing.

Bolaji Victoria criticised the restriction on leggings, arguing that it limits students' comfort.

"It is very bad because why will they tell us not to wear leggings? Do they expect us to be wearing gowns or maxi skirts all the time? This new policy has affected the way I dress," she said.

Daniel, a 200-level Law student, questioned the effectiveness of the enforcement, arguing that some students simply undo the corrections they make once they pass through the gate.

"Some students are asked to pack or roll up their hair at the gate, but immediately after entering the campus, they loosen it again. Others even use different entrances where these checks are not as strict," he said.

Joshua, a 200-level Guidance and Counselling student, also criticised what he described as excessive harassment by security personnel.

"They seem to enjoy exercising authority over students because they know everyone has no choice but to comply. They should reduce the way they harass students over the issue of indecent dressing," he said.

A 300-level Biochemistry student, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the experience as both embarrassing and frustrating but acknowledged that students have little choice but to obey the institution's regulations.

"It is not nice. It is really embarrassing and sometimes frustrating, but there is nothing we can do. It is the school's policy," the student said.

Sophia, a Mass Communication student, also believes security personnel sometimes go beyond their responsibilities, stressing that every student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

This new policy introduce by the school authorities has continued to generate discussions among students with many urging for a balance between maintaining discipline and respecting the students' rights and dignity.