In a decisive move to protect its students, the Emmanuel Alayande University of Education (EAUED) in Oyo has officially banned all activities related to the multi-level marketing organization NeoLife from its campus. The university management has issued a stern warning and set a deadline for compliance, following reports of exploitative practices targeting students.
University Cites Harassment and Academic Disruption
The ban was formalized in a memo from the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Wale Akinlabi, dated Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The document, titled “Proscription of Students' Involvement in Neolife Illegal Activities and Recruitment of Fellow Students,” accuses the group of engaging in humiliating and illegal practices that compromise student integrity and well-being.
Dr. Akinlabi stated that the university management received alarming reports about NeoLife's operations. “The conduct of the organisation as alleged is humiliating, as well as affecting the academic progress of students involved,” he said. The Dean further expressed concern over tactics used to intimidate students who refuse to join or attempt to leave the scheme, noting that many face harassment.
Student Reactions Reveal Coercive Tactics and High Costs
Students who spoke on the condition of anonymity provided insights into how NeoLife operates on campus. They described it as a classic multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme focused on health and wellness products, often linked to another group called Faith Heroic Generation (FHG).
One student explained the referral-based commission structure: “If I refer you to the business, I will step up and earn a commission on you. If you recruit many people, I earn commission on them too.” Members are encouraged to purchase expensive products to earn "Point Value" (PV), which helps them ascend to higher levels within the organization.
Another student criticized the recruitment methods, alleging, “People with sugarcoated mouths do it. Sometimes they use the drugs themselves, at a high cost, from ₦100,000 and above in most cases.” This highlights the financial pressure placed on students, who are persuaded to buy high-priced items to advance.
Strict Deadline and Offer of Support for Members
The university has given a clear ultimatum. All students involved with NeoLife must cease all activities immediately and have until January 30, 2026, to formally resign their membership. The memo explicitly prohibits recruiting fellow students both on and off campus.
Understanding that extricating oneself from such networks can be challenging, the university administration has offered a lifeline. Dr. Akinlabi urged affected students to seek help: “If you have concerns or need assistance to quit NEOLIFE, reach out to the Dean of Students (DSA) Office. Let us prioritise your safety and well-being.”
The university has warned that any student caught violating this order after the notice will face severe disciplinary action. Mr. Wale Adeoye, the University's Public Relations Officer, confirmed the proscription, emphasizing management's commitment to eradicating the group's influence.
This action by Emmanuel Alayande University of Education underscores a growing concern in Nigerian tertiary institutions about MLM schemes that potentially exploit students financially and disrupt their academic pursuits.
