The Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two academic staff members over allegations of inhumane treatment of students, sexual harassment, and financial misconduct.
The decision was reached at the university governing council’s 143rd statutory meeting held on 3 July, following the consideration of a report submitted by the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee.
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A statement by the university registrar and secretary to the council, Emmanuel Fanu, named the dismissed lecturers as Olatunji Abanikanda and Khadeejah Ibrahim.
The statement added that their dismissals took effect on 3 July.
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Offences
According to the statement, Mr Abanikanda, a professor and former Dean of the School of Agriculture, was found guilty of several offences including subjecting 400-level agriculture students to harsh and unsafe working conditions.
The students were reportedly made to remain on the farm from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without access to food or water, including during heavy rain that lasted between 4:45 p.m. to after 6:00 p.m.
Additional allegations against Mr Abanikanda included sexual harassment of female students of the same school, verbal abuse, threats, use of profane language, derogatory utterances and unauthorised financial collections from students and staff.
Meanwhile, Ms Ibrahim was found guilty of dereliction of duty and the unapproved collection of over N10.6 million in cash from students, which breached the university regulations, the statement said.
“These acts, tantamount to ‘Serious Misconduct’, are in contravention of the University’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended),” the statement stated.
Demand for Justice
The disciplinary actions follow weeks of pressure from student groups and civil society organisations.
The student union had condemned Mr Abanikanda’s alleged abuses and demanded action from the university.
In a statement signed by the union president Adebobola Ayomide, the union noted that it has since engaged directly with the affected students and escalated the matter to the university management.
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“No student of this University shall be subjected to intimidation, victimisation, or inhumane treatment. This is a strict warning to all who believe they can trample on the rights of students and walk free. The union will resist such with all democratic and legitimate force,” the union stated.
The union added that it will not fold its arms while any staff member subjects students to degrading punishment in the name of ego or power play.
While announcing the dismissals, LASU management reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the integrity of academic and administrative standards.
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