OAU graduate battles varsity for altering academic grade

The academic integrity of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), a prestigious institution in Nigeria, is under intense scrutiny following a court judgment that found it guilty of arbitrary and reckless conduct. The case of Shekoni Oluwagbemisola, a graduate of Physiotherapy, highlights a disturbing alleged attempt by the university to alter her academic records post-graduation.

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arbitrary and reckless.

Oluwagbemisola's academic journey culminated in a degree classified as "Pass with Credit," as evidenced by her Statement of Result dated November 23, 2023, and her inclusion in the university's 47th convocation brochure. However, the university reportedly later issued her certificate with a lower "Pass" classification and, alarmingly, changed her course of study from Physiotherapy to Occupational Therapy without her consent. The university's explanation of an "administrative and computational error" was deemed "vague and unsubstantiated" by the court.

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The court finds and holds that the plaintiff has shown from the preponderance of evidence that the defendant committed a wrong by changing her grade from Pass with Credit to Pass.

Justice Adefunmilola Demi-Ajayi of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, delivered a decisive judgment, ordering OAU to reinstate Oluwagbemisola's original "Pass with Credit" classification and issue a corrected certificate. The court also awarded N5.8 million in damages against the university, underscoring the severity of its actions. Despite the clear ruling and a subsequent ultimatum from Oluwagbemisola's counsel, the university's apparent non-compliance raises serious questions about its commitment to upholding judicial decisions and academic fairness. This situation is particularly concerning for students and alumni who rely on the accuracy and integrity of their academic records.

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The plaintiff is entitled to all the reliefs sought, which are hereby granted in their entirety.