A coalition of academics, students, alumni, and concerned Nigerians has petitioned the National Universities Commission (NUC), urging it to take decisive action against comedians and social media influencers who use the term “university” without legal authorization.
The group expressed concern over the growing popularity of parody platforms such as “Ghe Ghe University” and “Blessing CEO University,” which they described as more than comedy skits, but a direct affront to the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Dr. Charles Ekeh, spokesperson for the Coalition for Protection of Academic Integrity in Nigeria, argued that the term “university” is not a casual label but a legally protected designation:
“The term ‘university’ is a legally protected designation earned through rigorous accreditation. Allowing comedians to adopt this title dilutes its meaning and disrespects the years of dedication and excellence behind genuine academic institutions.”
The coalition maintained that the use of “university” by parody content creators undermines the credibility of accredited institutions and contravenes provisions of the NUC Act, which prohibits unauthorized use of the term. They cautioned that failure by the Commission to act could erode public confidence in higher education and weaken its regulatory authority.
Ekeh further warned that parody accounts may mislead unsuspecting Nigerians into mistaking such “universities” as legitimate, thereby creating opportunities for fraudulent degree scams and academic racketeering.
“Genuine universities are vital to Nigeria’s national development and international reputation. Equating them with comedy skits erodes their value both locally and globally,” he stressed.
The coalition’s petition outlined several demands, including:
Public condemnation of unauthorized use of “university.”
Cease-and-desist directives to comedians and influencers misusing the title.
Collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and social media platforms to enforce compliance.
A national awareness campaign to help Nigerians identify accredited institutions.
Dr. Ekeh clarified that the protest was not against creativity or entertainment but about safeguarding education:
“Defending the integrity of our academic institutions is not a joke.”
