The management of Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two academic staff members over allegations of sexual harassment, financial misconduct and inhumane treatment of students
Penpushing reports that the university registrar and secretary to the council, Emmanuel Fanu made this known in a statement and gave identities of the dismissed lecturers as Prof Olatunji Abanikanda and Khadeejah Ibrahim
The statement explained that the decision was reached at the university governing council’s 143rd statutory meeting held on July 3, 2025, following the consideration of a report submitted by the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee.
Penpushing further reports that Fanu stated that their dismissals took effect from July 3, 2025, adding that Abanikanda, a 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 statement added that 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.
Penpushing also reports that the management stated that additional allegations against 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.
The statement equally explained on the part of Ibrahim, she 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.
“These acts, tantamount to ‘Serious Misconduct’, are in contravention of the University’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended),” the statement emphasised.
Penpushing reports that the statement said the disciplinary actions follow weeks of pressure from student groups and civil society organisations, adding that the student union had condemned Abanikanda’s alleged abuses and demanded action from the university.
The President of the student union Adebobola Ayomide, in a statement pointed out that it has since engaged directly with the affected students and escalated the matter to the university management.
“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’, Ayomide said.
Penpushing further reports that 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.
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