Ghe Ghe University: Coalition Calls on NUC to Ban Fake ‘Universities’ on Social Media

A coalition of academics, students, alumni, and concerned Nigerians has called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ban social media comedians and influencers who use the term “university” without proper authorization.

The coalition, in a petition addressed to the NUC’s Executive Secretary and Board, expressed concern over the growing popularity of parody platforms such as “Ghe Ghe University” and “Blessing CEO University.” According to them, these fake “universities” are not just comedy skits but a direct attack on the integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.

Dr. Charles Ekeh, spokesperson for the Coalition for Protection of Academic Integrity in Nigeria, said the word university is not a casual term 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 insisted that such practices undermine the credibility of accredited Nigerian universities and violate the NUC Act, which prohibits unauthorized use of the term “university.” They warned that failure to act could weaken the Commission’s regulatory authority.

Ekeh further argued that while parody content may seem harmless to some, vulnerable Nigerians could easily mistake such fake institutions for legitimate ones. This, he warned, could open doors for fraudulent degree scams and academic racketeering.

He added that genuine universities are essential to Nigeria’s national growth and international reputation. Equating them with comedy skits, he said, erodes their value both locally and globally.

The coalition outlined several urgent demands, including, Public condemnation of unauthorized use of “university”, Cease-and-desist orders to comedians and influencers misusing the title, Partnership with the NCC and social media platforms to enforce compliance, A national awareness campaign to help Nigerians identify accredited institutions.

Ekeh stressed that the protest is not against creativity but about protecting education, “Defending our academic institutions’ integrity is not a joke.”

VANGUARD