A coalition of academics, students, alumni, and concerned citizens has petitioned the National Universities Commission (NUC), demanding urgent action against social media comedians and content creators who brand their parody platforms as “universities.”
In a formal protest letter addressed to the NUC’s Executive Secretary and Board, the group expressed alarm that parody institutions such as “Geh Geh University” and “Blessing CEO University” pose a threat to the credibility of Nigeria’s higher education system.
The coalition, under the umbrella of the Coalition for Protection of Academic Integrity in Nigeria, argued that the indiscriminate use of the term “university” by content creators is not a harmless act of comedy but an erosion of academic standards.
Its spokesperson, Dr. Charles Ekeh, said: “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.”
Ekeh explained that the trend not only undermines the sanctity of accredited universities but also creates room for fraud. He warned that vulnerable individuals might mistake parody accounts for real institutions, thereby exposing themselves to scams and further complicating Nigeria’s battle against degree racketeering.
He noted that under the NUC Act, no institution or entity is permitted to use “university” in its name without formal approval, stressing that failure to enforce the law diminishes the commission’s regulatory authority.
“While some may laugh at the comedy, the danger lies in how these parodies could be exploited by fraudulent degree mills under the guise of entertainment. This undermines the credibility of our higher education system and weakens ongoing efforts to protect its value,” Ekeh added.
The coalition demanded a public condemnation of the practice by the NUC, the issuance of cease-and-desist orders to offending social media accounts, collaboration with the National Communications Commission (NCC) and digital platforms to enforce compliance, and the launch of a national awareness campaign to help Nigerians distinguish accredited universities from parodies or fraudulent entities.
Ekeh clarified that the petition was not an attempt to stifle creativity or humour but a necessary step to defend the integrity of Nigerian education.
“Defending our academic institutions’ integrity is not a joke,” he stated.
