Sexual Harassment Scandal: 39 Lecturers Facing Indictment Over Five Years In Nigeria
Over the past five years, at least 39 lecturers in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions have been indicted and dismissed due to sexual misconduct, according to an analysis of media reports by The PUNCH. This revelation underscores the persistent issue of sexual harassment plaguing higher education institutions in the country.
Sexual harassment has been a recurring problem in Nigerian universities, with a survey conducted by the World Bank Group’s Women in 2018 revealing that 70% of female graduates from tertiary institutions in Nigeria experienced sexual harassment, with classmates and lecturers being the primary perpetrators.
Despite legislative efforts, such as the bill passed by the Senate in 2021 stipulating 21 years imprisonment for predatory lecturers, the majority of those found guilty of sexual misconduct have only faced dismissal from their positions.
Instances of sexual harassment by lecturers have been reported across various universities in Nigeria. For example, in 2018, a professor of Accounting at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, was indefinitely suspended over sexual harassment allegations. In 2021, three lecturers from different departments at the same university were dismissed for similar offenses.
Similar cases have occurred at institutions like Ambrose Ali University, Imo State University, University of Nigeria, and Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, among others. These incidents have led to suspensions, dismissals, and legal actions against the accused lecturers.
The failure to effectively address sexual misconduct in higher education institutions has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students. Despite the measures taken by universities to address these issues, including the dismissal of guilty lecturers, challenges persist in combating sexual harassment and ensuring accountability.
Efforts to address sexual harassment in Nigerian universities require a multi-faceted approach, including stricter enforcement of existing laws, comprehensive anti-harassment policies, and initiatives to promote a culture of respect and gender equality on campuses. Additionally, creating safe reporting mechanisms and providing support services for victims are essential steps in addressing this pervasive issue.