Fake University Ran From a Three-Bedroom Flat; 106 Young Nigerians Rescued
Wednesday, 22 July 2026
By Atlantic Digest Education Desk
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have uncovered a fake university operating from a three-bedroom apartment, rescuing 106 young Nigerians who had unknowingly enrolled in the illegal institution.
Investigators said the victims had collectively paid substantial tuition fees—reportedly as much as ₦1.5 million each—in the belief that they were pursuing recognised degree programmes. Authorities later discovered that the institution had no legal accreditation and was issuing certificates with no academic value.
The operation exposed what security agencies described as a sophisticated admission scam targeting young people seeking higher education opportunities. Officials said the organisers allegedly exploited the growing demand for university admission by presenting the institution as a legitimate tertiary establishment.
The rescued students are expected to receive counselling and assistance as investigations continue into those behind the fraudulent scheme. Authorities have launched a manhunt for other suspects believed to be connected to the operation.
The discovery has renewed concerns about the proliferation of illegal tertiary institutions across the country, with education stakeholders warning that admission pressure and limited spaces in accredited universities continue to make prospective students vulnerable to fraudsters.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) has repeatedly advised students and parents to verify the accreditation status of universities before paying tuition or accepting admission offers. The commission maintains an official list of approved universities and has consistently warned against enrolling in institutions operating without government authorisation.
Education experts say the incident underscores the urgent need to expand access to quality higher education while strengthening regulatory oversight to prevent fraudulent operators from exploiting unsuspecting families.
Security officials urged members of the public to report suspicious educational institutions and to confirm the legal status of any university through the appropriate regulatory authorities before making financial commitments.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to working with education regulators and other security agencies to identify and dismantle illegal institutions, protect students from exploitation and ensure that those responsible for the fake university are brought to justice.
