OAU rejects ethnic discrimination allegations, defends admission policy
Obafemi Awolowo University Rejects Ethnic Discrimination Claims in Admission Process
Ile-Ife, Osun State — Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has firmly denied allegations of ethnic discrimination in its admission process for the 2025/2026 academic session. The university asserts that its admissions are conducted in accordance with federal policies and regulatory guidelines.
In a press statement issued by Abiodun Olarewaju, the university’s Public Relations Officer, the institution responded to an open petition from Akin Okunowo, who claims to represent a national anti-cult organization. The petition alleged that OAU engaged in ethnic marginalization, abandoned merit in admissions, and discriminated against applicants based on ethnicity.
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The university refuted these claims, stating they misrepresent its admission protocols. “OAU unequivocally rejects any suggestion that its admission process is driven by ethnic hostility, a secret agenda against Yoruba students, or a deliberate attempt to compromise academic standards,” the statement read.
Olarewaju emphasized that OAU operates as a federal institution, adhering to national admission policies established by the Federal Government and other relevant regulatory bodies overseeing higher education in Nigeria. The admission framework considers multiple factors, including candidates’ academic performance, available spaces, program requirements, and policies aimed at promoting geographical representation and educational access.
“It is not our aim to undermine academic excellence or disadvantage any candidate based on their state of origin,” the statement continued. “Our goal is to ensure fairness and inclusivity while maintaining the academic standards expected of a reputable institution.”
OAU highlighted that federal admission policies take into account merit, geographical representation, national integration, and access to education. These principles are codified in guidelines addressing catchment areas and educationally disadvantaged states.
The university clarified that variations in admission thresholds within an authorized framework should not be misconstrued as evidence of ethnic discrimination. “The University operates under the laws and policies governing federal universities, hence it must adhere to applicable national admission guidelines and directives from relevant regulatory authorities,” the statement noted.
In light of concerns regarding admission to competitive programs such as Law and Accounting, the university urged those questioning the fairness of admission decisions to review the complete official admission records rather than relying solely on selected scores.
Candidates and their parents who believe admissions decisions do not align with approved guidelines are encouraged to submit formal complaints through appropriate channels. Complaints should detail the program, admission session, candidate credentials, and grounds for contesting the decision.
OAU stressed that it has no interest in denying qualified candidates admission or discriminating based on ethnicity. “We are dedicated to implementing admission policies fairly while upholding academic standards,” the statement read.
The university advised that individuals with grievances about the Federal Government’s admission policy direct their concerns to the relevant authorities, including the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission, and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.
Recognizing that admission to competitive programs often leads to disappointment, OAU called on stakeholders to discuss admission policies based on verified information and compelling evidence.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, academic excellence, and institutional accountability, OAU expressed its willingness to engage constructively with students, parents, and educational stakeholders. The statement concluded, “Great Ife remains great—not beyond criticism, but through its enduring commitment to learning, excellence, and national development.”
