LASU regulates content creation on campus after viral ‘bandits prank’ video

The Lagos State University (LASU) has introduced regulations for activities surrounding cinematographic activities (content creation) across the campuses. The move follows the bandit prank that caused pandemonium among students on campus.

The disclosure was contained in a press statement released on Friday night on its official Facebook page, signed by Oluwayemis A. Thomas-Onashile, Deputy Registrar/Coordinator, Centre for Information and Public Relations, LASU. It noted that the move is an attempt to maintain the University’s status and integrity and preserve sanity. 

In the statement, LASU noted that all students, individuals who wish to engage in cinematographic activities on the University campus, must first obtain approval from its Centre for Information and Public Relations (CIPR). 

“This includes, but is not limited to, the shooting or recording of videos such as skits, vox pops, short films, promotional content, or any other form of audiovisual material within the University premises, hostels, or associated facilities,” it added. 

With the regulation, the management aims to curb the unauthorised use of its facilities for ‘offensive’ content that misrepresents the University’s values and image. 

“Such materials have the potential to cause reputational harm and undermine the integrity of the University as a respected citadel of learning and character development,” part of the statement reads. 

In addition to the regulation of content creation, LASU has also reviewed the use of drones within its campus. The management noted that students and the general public who want to use drones in the University environment must now obtain approval from the Security Department. 

“This measure is to ensure the safety, privacy, and security of all members of the University community,” it added.

Backstory

The latest development comes after the University had earlier distanced itself from authorising the bandit pranks, which caused pandemonium across the University community.

In a press release on Sunday, December 7, 2025, LASU frowned at the video, stating that it does not support any prank that can incite fear, disrupt campus peace, or threaten the sense of safety of its students and staff. 

“LASU strongly condemns acts or content that portray or suggest banditry, terrorism, or violent extremism,” it said. 

On Friday, December 5, 2025,  a viral video titled “Bandits Prank on Lasuites,” reportedly created and uploaded by Datreez Entertainment TV, circulated across social media platforms. The video depicts individuals dressed in a manner that created immediate fear and panic while entering LASU with equipment and prompting distress amongst students.

The video prank comes at a time when the Nigerian community is facing significant national security challenges. It has also faced several criticisms by Nigerians who depict it as an attempt to make a jest at a time at a critical time.

Also Read: MoMo PSB launches ₦10 bus rides for UNILAG students through new EV partnership.

Not only LASU

This isn’t the first time a Nigerian university has regulated content creation within its environment. 

In October, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) prohibited the unauthorised use of its campus, including hostels and other facilities, for video production by skitmakers, filmmakers, and content creators.

According to the University management, the move is to curb the increasing use of its campus for video production. In addition, it’s an attempt to protect the academic environment and preserve the institution’s image from misrepresentation in unregulated productions.

With the rising regulation of content creation, in addition to critics surrounding ethical considerations, content creators