Absurd Rules in Nigerian Universities

I have always thought that a university campus can be a place where you can have the opportunity to find yourself. But some privately owned universities in Nigeria have certain rules that in my opinion, violates the freedom of expression policy.

Here are some very absurd rules in some Nigerian universities that carry (sometimes severe) punishment if broken.

Thou Shalt Not Touch One Another

You must never touch anyone of the opposite sex within the school's premises and by touching, I mean holding hands, hugging, patting him or her on the back and/or shoulders, or shaking hands with the opposite sex. If you break this rule, you will be suspended and your name will be put in the Black Book (you do not want this!).

Thou Shalt Not Wear Pants

Female students are not allowed to wear trousers/pants because it is considered men's wear. Some other schools simply frown at women who wear trousers and consider them to be on the same level as prostitutes. The ladies are instructed to wear only ankle or calf length skirts (No slits!). Certain colours that attract attention are also not allowed. This rule is has never been broken, because the consequence of breaking this rule is automatic expulsion.

Thou Shalt Not Use Long Weaves

The female students are not allowed to use long weaves except if your hair is naturally long. The weaves should be shoulder length and dramatic colours such as blonde, red, gold etc are out-rightly forbidden! Black & dark brown are the only accepted colours for weaves. Hair styles such as dreadlocks are utterly out of the question.

Thou Shalt Keep Thine Hair Short And Natural

The men are not allowed to keep their hair long or use hair relaxers, because long hair and hair relaxers are meant for women and not men. According to the school management, only irresponsible men keep long hair.

Thou Shalt Not Sleep Outside The School Premises

All students are not to spend any night outside the school campus without authorized permission. You won't believe this, but before the lights are out, a headcount is taken by the hall monitor (it's like living at home all over again!) Spending the night outside campus can lead to suspension.

Thou Shalt Not Wear Dramatic Jewelleries

Students are not allowed to wear jewelry that are too ostentatious. It is considered as "vulgar" by the school management. If you are caught wearing vulgar accessories, you will be asked to remove it and have disciplinary action taken upon you.

I know what you are thinking, who would ever want to attend such schools that are no better than prison? The reason is that most parents are happier leaving their children in an environment where they are monitored constantly. Most students have found ways to adapt or get around these rules without getting caught, while some are simply just glad to be out of the house.