University Students Sent Back Home Over Alleged Improper Dressing
…As SERVICOM Enforces University Dress Code
From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Federal University Otuoke (FUO), Bayelsa State, were on Tuesday turned back from campus over allegations of improper dressing, as the institution intensified enforcement of its dress code policy.
The operation, carried out by officials of the SERVICOM unit under the Office of the Vice Chancellor, began as early as 7am at the university gate. Students deemed to be in violation of the dress code were denied entry into the school premises.
Among those affected were students with tinted or dyed hair, female students in leggings and tight jeans, and male students wearing sagging trousers. The crackdown drew mixed reactions from students and observers alike.
A university lecturer and member of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Mr. Socrates Ebo, had earlier reiterated the university’s dress code guidelines on the institution’s official social media platforms. According to him, acceptable attire includes suits, trousers, shirts, skirts, blouses, gowns, and traditional wear. For footwear, only sandals, covered shoes, canvas, and sneakers are permitted.
He emphasized that body-revealing clothes, ripped jeans, and dyed hair are now banned on campus, adding, “Many believe this kind of dress code should be adopted in all universities to promote discipline and proper appearance among students.”
While some students applauded the move, others raised concerns about the university’s priorities.
“It’s a welcome development,” one student commented. “I just hope the management of the university continues with this new initiative.”
Another student said, “The improper dressing is becoming too much, especially among newly admitted students. Kudos to the SERVICOM boss for taking the bull by the horns to sanitize the university system.”
However, not all students were impressed. Lucky Ebidou, a staff of the institution, urged the university to apply the same level of commitment to addressing more pressing challenges such as overcrowded lecture halls and persistent power outages.
Similarly, another student, Egbegi Edeinbofa, lamented the state of health facilities on campus and the lack of electricity. “Students have to buy their own drugs when sick. The school doesn’t even have light,” he said.
The university authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the student reactions, but the dress code enforcement appears to be part of a broader campaign to instill discipline and improve the academic environment at FUO.
