LASU Reacts to Allegations of Admission Racketeering in 2025/2026 Academic Session
The management of Lagos State University (LASU) has officially denied allegations of admission racketeering in the ongoing 2025/2026 admission process, stressing that its system remains transparent, merit-based, and guided by state law.In recent weeks, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, has faced widespread speculation and allegations of admission racketeering. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts suggesting that admission slots were being sold to the highest bidders, raising concerns among prospective students and parents. Given that over 70,000 candidates applied for admission into LASU for the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) cycle, the tension was understandable.However, the university management has firmly denied the allegations, insisting that admissions remain merit-driven and transparent. In a statement released by the Deputy Registrar and Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, Oluwayemisi A. Thomas-Onashile, the institution emphasized that it had become a “victim of its own success.” The sheer number of applications and limited admission slots created frustration, which unfortunately fueled false narratives.
LASU clarified that the university operates strictly under the Lagos State University Law 2004 (as amended). According to this law, admissions follow a 70:30 ratio, giving preference to Lagos State indigenes while also admitting students from other parts of Nigeria. This structure ensures both inclusivity and fairness while honoring the university’s state obligations.The statement further highlighted the following key points:
Merit Comes First: The first admission list is strictly based on merit, determined by candidates’ academic performance and scores in relevant examinations.
Lagos Indigenes Get Priority: Once the merit list is released, cleared and verified Lagos State indigenes are prioritized in subsequent supplementary or discretionary admissions.
High Application Numbers: LASU received over 70,000 applications this year, the highest of any Nigerian university. Unfortunately, the university can only admit fewer than 20% due to capacity limitations.
No Room for Racketeering: The power to approve admissions rests solely with the Vice-Chancellor. No staff member or intermediary has the authority to grant admission in exchange for money.
With only about 14,000 slots available for admission out of over 70,000 applicants, the reality is that thousands of qualified candidates will be left disappointed. This mismatch between demand and available spaces is one of the primary reasons for frustration among applicants. Many turn to social media to vent their disappointment, while others fall prey to scammers who promise admission for a fee.LASU management noted that while these frustrations are understandable, they do not justify spreading misinformation. The university reassured parents, guardians, and students that all admission processes follow national and state policies, and anyone claiming otherwise is attempting to exploit vulnerable candidates.
The most damaging rumor circulating online has been the claim that admission into LASU can be bought. The institution strongly refuted this allegation, warning applicants to beware of fraudsters. The official statement made it clear:
“No staff member has the authority or capability to offer admission in exchange for money. Candidates are strongly advised that anyone making such claims is exploiting their desperation and is unable to fulfill such promises.”
To back this up, LASU encouraged anyone with verifiable evidence of racketeering to report via a dedicated channel: complaints.admissions@lasu.edu.ng. Management promised that all legitimate reports would be investigated and culprits appropriately sanctioned.
The Deputy Registrar described the current admission tension as proof of LASU’s rising reputation. The fact that tens of thousands of candidates aspire to study at LASU demonstrates the university’s success in academics, infrastructure, and research. However, this popularity also creates challenges in managing expectations and admissions within the approved quota.LASU reassured candidates that while disappointment may be temporary, truth endures. The university remains committed to transparency and meritocracy in all its admission practices.The LASU controversy is not unique. Many Nigerian universities face similar challenges every year during admission season. With millions of candidates sitting for JAMB annually and limited admission spaces across tertiary institutions, frustration is inevitable. As one of the top-ranking universities in Nigeria, LASU’s high application rate reflects its attractiveness to students nationwide.Experts have long called for expansion of university infrastructure, investment in more tertiary institutions, and the strengthening of polytechnics and colleges of education to absorb the growing demand for higher education in Nigeria.
Always check admission status through the official LASU portal and JAMB CAPS (Central Admission Processing System).
Avoid paying money to individuals who claim they can secure admission slots.
Understand the quota and merit system, especially the 70:30 ratio applied by LASU.
Consider alternative higher education pathways, such as polytechnics, colleges of education, or part-time and diploma programs, while awaiting university admission.
Stay updated through official LASU channels and ignore unverified social media claims.
LASU management noted that while these frustrations are understandable, they do not justify spreading misinformation. The university reassured parents, guardians, and students that all admission processes follow national and state policies, and anyone claiming otherwise is attempting to exploit vulnerable candidates.
