Babcock University has warned the public against fraudulent academic certificates falsely linked to the institution, saying that it does not recognise any classification called “First Class Upper.”

In a public notice released on Monday via its official X account, the Ogun-based University said it uncovered fake certificates being circulated by individuals claiming affiliation with the school.

The alert followed social media streamer Oderhohwo Joseph Efe, popularly known as Carter Efe, who posted what he claimed was a Babcock University Biochemistry degree with a “First Class Upper” grade after questions about his academic background.

According to Babcock, one of the forged documents is an alleged “honorary certificate” from the “Babcock University Biochemistry Computer Club” awarded to Efe for a “First Class Upper.”

“Babcock University unequivocally states that this document is false, unauthorised, and does not emanate from the university,” the statement read.

The university clarified that it does not issue honorary certificates for undergraduate performance.

“For the avoidance of doubt: Babcock University does not issue ‘Honorary Certificates’ in recognition of undergraduate academic performance,” it said.

It added that academic excellence is recognised only through an official degree certificate and transcript from the Office of the Registrar.

“Academic excellence, including the award of First Class Honours, is formally recognised only through the University’s official degree certificate and academic transcript issued by the Office of the Registrar.”

The university also dismissed the classification contained in the forged document, saying, “There is no academic classification or degree known to Babcock University as ‘First Class Upper’. The recognised classification is First Class Honours.”

Babcock urged employers, schools, professional bodies, government agencies, and the public to disregard the forged document and similar ones.

It warned that anyone who produces, presents, or uses fake certificates for employment, admission, immigration, or other gains risks investigation and prosecution.

The institution said it would pursue civil and criminal action against anyone who misrepresents its name, logo, seal, or academic documents.

“Accordingly, all persons responsible for the production, issuance, circulation, or use of the fraudulent certificate and any similar unauthorised documents are hereby directed to immediately cease and desist from such unlawful acts,” the statement said.

“Accordingly, all persons responsible for the production, issuance, circulation, or use of the fraudulent certificate and any similar unauthorised documents are hereby directed to immediately cease and desist from such unlawful acts,” the statement said.

It added, “The University will not hesitate to pursue all available legal remedies to protect the integrity of its academic credentials and institutional reputation.”

It also advised the public to verify any Babcock credential directly with the Office of the Registrar to protect the integrity of its records.