By Deborah Nnamdi
Babcock University has disowned a purported academic certificate circulated online by comedian and content creator Carter Efe, describing the document as fake and warning that those responsible for producing or using forged academic credentials could face prosecution.
The controversy erupted after Carter Efe, whose real name is Oderhohwo Joseph Efe, reportedly claimed during an interview that he graduated from the university with a First Class degree in Biochemistry. Following widespread scepticism on social media, he shared what he claimed was his academic certificate as proof.
The document, which quickly went viral, purportedly showed that he graduated with a “First Class Upper” and was awarded an “Honorary Certificate” by the “Babcock University Biochemistry Computer Club.”
Reacting in a public notice dated June 29, 2026, Babcock University said the certificate did not emanate from the institution and was neither authorised nor recognised.
The university stated that it does not issue honorary certificates in recognition of undergraduate academic performance and does not recognise any academic classification known as “First Class Upper.”
It explained that the official academic classification is “First Class Honours,” which is conferred only through degree certificates and academic transcripts issued by the Office of the Registrar.
Babcock further stressed that no department, student association, or campus club is authorised to issue academic certificates or documents on behalf of the university.
The institution advised employers, educational institutions, professional bodies, government agencies, and members of the public to disregard any academic document purportedly issued by the university outside its established academic procedures.
It also warned that anyone found producing, circulating, presenting, or using forged academic documents could be investigated and prosecuted under relevant laws relating to forgery, fraud, and the falsification of academic records.
The university urged members of the public to verify the authenticity of academic credentials through its Office of the Registrar before relying on them for employment, admission, or any official purpose.
Babcock reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its academic records and protecting the institution’s reputation against impersonation and certificate fraud.
