Despite this, reports of sexual harassment remain rampant in many Nigerian and African universities, which is deeply concerning as it constitutes a breach of human rights and academic freedom. Sexual harassment is a harmful and damaging practice that can affect an individual’s self-esteem, social interactions, and discourage other students from achieving their full potential. This is a recurring issue that has been reported at various levels around the world, and there is now heightened awareness of the extent and destructive consequences of sexual harassment. In Nigeria, sexual harassment in higher institutions is an extremely important form of violence that requires appropriate theoretical frameworks to highlight the causes and underlying factors for its existence.
The Nigeria Feminist Forum (NFF) has expressed dismay over the increasing cases of sexual harassment in higher institutions throughout the country. In a statement released to the press on Saturday, the NFF stated that it was deeply concerned about recent allegations of sexual harassment against the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Prof. Cyril Ndifon.
The association has strongly condemned any form of sexual harassment of women in tertiary institutions and stands in solidarity with the brave female students who have come forward to voice their experiences. The suspension of Mr Ndifon from his position as Dean of the Faculty of Law is a necessary step towards addressing the serious allegations against him.
However, the NFF also highlights the urgent need for the President to sign the Sexual Harassment of Students in Tertiary Education Prohibition Bill into law. The association calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sign the bill into law to protect students against sexual harassment by educators and promote ethical standards in tertiary institutions throughout the country.
The NFF has expressed concern that this is not the first time that Mr Ndifon has faced allegations of sexual misconduct. The previous suspension in 2015 following accusations of rape raises serious questions about the effectiveness of measures taken to address such misconduct. The lack of clear evidence exonerating him after his 2015 suspension is a cause for alarm and underscores the importance of a transparent and just investigation process. The Nigeria Feminist Forum is urging the University of Calabar to establish an impartial and expert-led panel to thoroughly investigate the allegations against Mr Ndifon. The association also calls for the active participation and protection of survivors throughout the investigation, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights respected.
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According to the World Bank Group’s Women, Business and Law survey, 70% of female graduates from Nigerian tertiary institutions have been sexually harassed in school. The appalling statistics of sexual harassment in higher education institutions emphasize the urgent need for all higher education institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff by implementing clear and robust sexual harassment policies. These policies should include stringent measures to prevent and address incidents of sexual harassment, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
The NFF advocates for the establishment of confidential reporting mechanisms, support services, and awareness campaigns aimed at preventing and addressing sexual harassment on campuses. A culture of respect, dignity, and equality must be fostered within academic environments where everyone can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination. The association is calling upon the President, policymakers, university administrators, and civil society organizations to collaborate in crafting and enforcing comprehensive sexual harassment policies that guarantee the safety and dignity of women within higher education institutions. The Nigeria Feminist Forum is committed to supporting initiatives that promote gender equality, address sexual harassment, and create a conducive learning environment for all.
