Conviction At UNICAL Rekindles Debate On Campus Safety As CISLAC Demands Stronger Legal Protection
The long-running problem of sexual harassment in Nigerian universities has once again taken centre stage, this time with a decisive courtroom victory that many believe could redefine accountability on campuses.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has commended the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for securing the conviction of Prof. Cyril Ndifon, suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, over sexual harassment and exploitation of female students.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the ruling as a landmark judgment that sends a clear signal that the abuse of power within academic institutions will no longer be tolerated.
Rafsanjani stressed that sexual harassment is a form of gender-based corruption and insisted that no lecturer should misuse their authority for personal gratification.
“Lecturers have a duty of care towards their students and must uphold it at all times. Institutions of learning must remain safe spaces, especially for young women who deserve dignity, respect, and protection,” CISLAC stated.
The organisation urged victims and witnesses of harassment to come forward and encouraged tertiary institutions to strengthen internal policies and reporting channels.
It highlighted its ongoing collaboration with ICPC and its use of the Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre (ALAC) to receive complaints, offer free legal guidance, and ensure verified cases reach the appropriate authorities.
CISLAC also applauded the 10th National Assembly for passing the Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institutions Bill, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give it prompt assent once transmitted to the Presidency.
Rafsanjani said signing the bill into law would provide stronger protection for students and guarantee that offenders face justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding young people, CISLAC noted that every Nigerian campus must be a place where learning thrives free from fear, intimidation, or abuse.
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