In a bold move that sends a strong message across Nigeria’s academic space, the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has dismissed three lecturers following confirmed cases of sexual harassment.
The university’s Governing Council, after a thorough investigation and deliberation, approved the immediate dismissal of the trio including Nurudeen Hassan from the Department of Mass Communication, Kareem Arigbabu and Olayinka Uthman, both from the Department of Arts and Design.
LASUSTECH spokesperson, Olanrewaju Kuye confirmed the dismissal to DevReporting in a telephone interview, explaining that due process was followed. He added that the university’s sexual harassment policy guided every step of the proceedings.
According to Mr Kuye, the council’s decision reflects the institution’s zero-tolerance for sexual harassment, reiterating that the disciplinary action followed due process.
A statement from the institution titled, ‘Dismissal of Staff Members Due to Sexual Harassment Allegations’, explained that the decision was taken in accordance with section 5.5.2(v) of the university’s senior staff conditions of Service.
“The Governing Council of LASUSTECH has taken decisive action in response to allegations of sexual harassment involving three staff members. After a thorough investigation and deliberation, the council has approved their dismissal.
“This decision, which is effective immediately, is in accordance with Section 5.5.2(v) of the University Senior Staff Conditions of Service,” the statement reads in part.
Zero tolerance for sexual misconduct
Beyond the dismissals, the university reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safe and respectful learning environment.
According to the statement, allegations of sexual harassment not only compromise the integrity of the institution but also disrupt the academic atmosphere.
According to the statement, allegations of sexual harassment, not only compromises the integrity of the institution but also disrupts the academic atmosphere.
“The university takes allegations of sexual harassment seriously, as they compromise the institution’s image and disrupt the academic environment. The Governing Council’s decision reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful campus community,” the statement reads.
Due Process
Mr Kuye, the university’s spokesperson maintained that the disciplinary action followed due process.
He said, “The university has a sexual harassment policy which was followed. All procedures were followed before the university took action.”
Commendation
The Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI) has applauded the management and Governing Council of LASUSTECH for taking decisive disciplinary action against the three lecturers found guilty of sexual harassment.
Established in October 2017, GMI seeks to complement the programme and policy efforts of the government in advancing intersectional gender equality and eliminating all forms of sexual and gender-based violence which undermines women’s potential, agency, and freedom.
In a statement signed by its Communication Officer, Digital Media, Abubakar Abdullahi, GMI described the move as a bold step that sends a powerful message about the university’s zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. It also emphasised the importance of accountability, justice, and the protection of students in academic spaces.
“As partners in the collective fight against sexual and gender-based violence in educational institutions, we recognise that such actions not only offer a sense of justice to survivors but also help build a safer and more inclusive academic community,” the statement read.
GMI further urged other institutions to follow LASUSTECH’s example by strengthening their reporting and redress mechanisms, enforcing appropriate sanctions, and creating safe spaces that support survivors.
