Coalition to NUC: Crack Down on ‘Geh Geh University’ and Other Fake Social Media Institutions

A broad coalition of academics, students, alumni, and concerned citizens has called on the National Universities Commission (NUC) to take urgent regulatory action against social media content creators and comedians misusing the title “university” for parody platforms such as “Geh Geh University” and “Blessing CEO University.”

In a formal petition to the Executive Secretary and Board of the NUC, the group warned that the unchecked spread of such parody institutions is more than just comedy—it poses a serious threat to the credibility and integrity of Nigeria’s higher education system.

Dr. Charles Ekeh, spokesperson for the Coalition for Protection of Academic Integrity in Nigeria, stressed that the term “university” is a legally protected designation that requires rigorous accreditation.

“Allowing comedians to adopt this title dilutes its meaning and disrespects the years of dedication and excellence behind genuine academic institutions,” Ekeh said.

He added that under the NUC Act, no entity is permitted to use the word “university” without express approval from the commission. Failure to act against these parody platforms, the coalition warned, undermines the NUC’s regulatory authority and leaves room for abuse.

The coalition also cautioned that while many see these social media “universities” as satire, vulnerable and uninformed users may believe they offer real courses or credentials, making them potential tools for fraud.

“Genuine Nigerian universities are critical to national development and international competitiveness. Equating them with joke pages erodes their stature both at home and abroad,” Ekeh stated.

The coalition argued that the misuse of academic titles by online personalities could open the door for degree mills to exploit the guise of comedy, further complicating Nigeria’s ongoing fight against academic fraud and fake certifications.

To address the issue, the coalition outlined a list of demands, including:

• A public condemnation from the NUC against the unauthorized use of the term “university”;
• The issuance of cease-and-desist orders to offending accounts;
• Collaboration with the National Communications Commission (NCC) and social media platforms to enforce compliance;
• The launch of a national public education campaign to help Nigerians recognize properly accredited institutions.

Ekeh clarified that the coalition is not seeking to suppress comedy or digital creativity but to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s educational system.

“Defending our academic institutions’ integrity is not a joke,” he said.