Babcock University has refuted claims by content creator Carter Efe that he graduated from the institution with a First Class degree in Biochemistry, insisting that the certificate he posted online is fake.
The university made its position known in a statement released on Monday, describing the document shared by the comedian, whose real name is Oderhohwo Joseph Efe, as “false, unauthorized, and does not emanate from the University.”
The controversy arose after Carter Efe claimed during an interview with Egungun of Lagos that he earned a First Class degree from Babcock University. He later uploaded what he described as his graduation certificate on X, stating that he completed his studies in 2023.
Reacting to the claim, the institution said it had become aware of forged documents being circulated by individuals falsely claiming ties to the university.
“The attention of Babcock University has been drawn to the circulation of fraudulent documents by certain individuals falsely claiming to have affiliations with, and possessing honorary certificates and academic distinctions purportedly issued by the University.
“One such document is a purported “Honorary Certificate” allegedly issued by the Babcock University Biochemistry Computer Club to ODERHOHWO JOSEPH EFE for achieving a “First Class Upper”.
“Babcock University unequivocally states that this document is false, unauthorized, and does not emanate from the University.
“Babcock University does not issue “Honorary Certificates” in recognition of undergraduate academic performance.
“Academic excellence, including the award of First Class Honours, is formally recognized only through the University’s official degree certificate and academic transcript issued by the Office of the Registrar.
“There is no academic classification or degree known to Babcock University as “First Class Upper”. The recognized classification is First Class Honours.”
The university further urged employers, government agencies, educational institutions, professional organisations and international bodies to disregard any academic document bearing its name that was not issued through its official procedures.
It also warned that anyone found producing, presenting or using forged academic documents to secure employment, admission, promotion, immigration benefits or other advantages could face investigation and prosecution under applicable laws relating to forgery and fraud.
In a separate post on its official X account, Babcock University disclosed that legal action had already been initiated.
“Babcock University warns public of forged certificates in circulation, including fake “Honorary” ones with a non-existent “First Class Upper” classification,” the post read.
“We DO NOT issue such documents. “First Class Upper” doesn’t exist here.
“Legal action underway.”
🚨 FRAUD ALERT 🚨
Babcock University warns public of forged certificates in circulation, including fake "Honorary" ones with a non-existent "First Class Upper" classification.
We DO NOT issue such documents. "First Class Upper" doesn't exist here.
Legal action underway. pic.twitter.com/4g91pTcvwo
— Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Nigeria (@Babcock_Univ) June 29, 2026
