Reports of sexual harassment within Nigerian universities are deeply concerning, raising questions about the adequacy of systems for investigating and addressing such misconduct. Students, who should primarily be focused on learning and academic achievement, find themselves grappling with this disturbing issue.
It’s puzzling why the university system seems to protect lecturers accused of harassment while neglecting the well-being of the victims. In this day and age, one would expect a more civilized approach to education, free from the tensions and anxieties caused by such misconduct, especially for female students.
Specifically, allegations of sexual misconduct have surfaced against Tony Asekhuno, a lecturer at the University of Benin. Multiple students have come forward, alleging that Asekhuno engaged in sexual harassment and sought favours from female students in exchange for better grades. Such claims demand a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and justice.
One student, Udak Ekpedeme, shared her experience, recounting how Asekhuno made inappropriate remarks about her appearance and even joked about taking advantage of her.
“Shit! Philosophy Tony? Uniben Tony? That bastard told me to be grateful to God for my height else he would have had me and I was not even in his dept and Okwe and Kola whose office I was in laughed at the joke
When Okwe got down with stroke, I knelt down in my room thanking God.”
Another student, Chikamma, bravely disclosed her ordeal, revealing that she was failed multiple times until she succumbed to his advances, only to receive a passing grade.
@ chikamma “Tony Asekhuno failed my logic deliberately 3 times until he raped me in his office in final year and gave me a C. I kept failing because I refused to date him”
Furthermore, there are accounts from students who witnessed similar behaviour from other lecturers, highlighting a systemic problem within the university. One student recalled how a lecturer openly admitted to no longer accepting sexual favours due to the associated costs, opting instead for monetary bribes.
@Honey Berry. “Some people are saying she’s lieing that no lecturer will say that publicly… In this same Uniben, there’s this lecturer in political science dept, he made it clear during lecture one day that he’s no longer accepting sex for grades coz it’s costly(paying for room, food, etc.). He clearly said “na money I won dey collect now, if you no get money no come my office oo”
In light of these disturbing revelations, it is imperative that authorities take swift and decisive action to address the issue of sexual harassment within Nigerian universities. The well-being and academic success of students should never be compromised by the misconduct of faculty members. It is hoped that a thorough investigation will be conducted, leading to meaningful reforms that prioritize the safety and dignity of all students.
