Oxlade’s Shocking LASU Dropout Story: How Gangs Targeted Him for Being ‘Too Handsome

Nigerian Afro-fusion singer Oxlade, born Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, recently made headlines with a startling admission about his university life. In a candid interview, the artist revealed that his decision to drop out of Lagos State University (LASU) was not just due to academic or financial reasons, but rather a more dangerous circumstance. According to Oxlade, his physical appearance—specifically being considered a “fine boy”—put him in harm’s way.

The singer opened up about the pressures he faced from campus gangs who sought to recruit him. He explained that being handsome made him a target, a fact many young men in Lagos face. His choices were stark: either join the gangs or risk his life. Faced with such a grim ultimatum, Oxlade opted for self-preservation and left LASU, choosing to pursue his music career full-time.

The Dark Side of University Life: Gangs and Violence

Oxlade’s experience sheds light on the darker undercurrents of university life in Nigeria, where gang activity often infiltrates academic spaces. The rise of secret cults and gangs within Nigerian universities is a well-known issue, yet rarely discussed openly. For students like Oxlade, survival becomes a daily concern as these gangs look to bolster their ranks by recruiting or threatening prominent individuals on campus.

The artist’s revelation highlights the stark realities of these environments, where being perceived as physically attractive or having any form of prominence can make someone a target. Many students are faced with an impossible choice: compromise their integrity and join gangs, or live in constant fear. Oxlade’s story is a chilling reminder that, beyond academics, safety can be the ultimate reason for leaving university.

From LASU Dropout to Global Music Sensation

Though Oxlade had to leave his academic pursuits behind, the decision to drop out of LASU arguably fueled his meteoric rise in the music industry. The singer took this life-altering event and redirected his energy towards music, a passion he had nurtured since his early years. With hits like “Away” and “Ojuju,” Oxlade has become a global Afrobeat sensation, resonating with fans worldwide.

His success story is an example of resilience, proving that adverse circumstances can often serve as a catalyst for extraordinary achievement. While his academic journey at LASU came to a premature end, Oxlade’s musical career has reached heights that many dream of, cementing his status as one of the leading voices in the Afro-fusion genre.

The Impact of Campus Gangs on Nigerian Universities

Oxlade’s admission highlights a pressing issue within Nigerian educational institutions: the growing influence of gangs. These groups not only intimidate students but also compromise the academic environment by instilling fear and promoting violence. The singer’s case is far from isolated; many students across the country have faced similar threats or even worse consequences for not complying with gang demands.

Cultism and gang-related violence in Nigerian universities is a multi-faceted problem that has plagued the education system for decades. Authorities often struggle to contain it, leaving students vulnerable. Oxlade’s personal experience brings attention to the need for stronger interventions to safeguard young students from such hostile environments.

The Role of Appearance in Social Vulnerability

Oxlade’s confession touches on an important societal issue: how physical appearance can lead to social vulnerability. In his case, being a “fine boy” made him an easy target for gangs. This concept of attractiveness serving as a double-edged sword is not new, but it is rarely discussed in the context of male vulnerability, particularly in African societies.

Traditionally, societal narratives around physical attractiveness often focus on women, but Oxlade’s story underscores the fact that men, too, can face harassment and threats based on their looks. In Oxlade’s world, being good-looking came with a price: gang recruitment or personal harm. This adds an additional layer of complexity to conversations about beauty standards and personal safety.

Oxlade’s Courageous Stand: A Message of Hope and Resilience

Oxlade’s decision to leave LASU and escape the dangers posed by gangs reflects his courage and determination to carve his own path. Rather than succumbing to the threats, he chose to remove himself from the toxic environment and follow his passion. His journey from a university dropout to a global star is a powerful testament to resilience and self-preservation.

For his fans and young people facing similar challenges, Oxlade’s story sends a clear message: your circumstances do not define you. The singer has turned a traumatic experience into a source of strength, using his platform to inspire others who may feel trapped by societal pressures. Oxlade’s voice, both through his music and his life story, continues to resonate with fans worldwide.