NIGERIA: LASU Dismisses Dean, Accomplice Over Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Office

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The management of Lagos State University (LASU) has announced the dismissal of the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Mr. O.T.F. Abanikanda, and his accomplice, Dr. Khadijah, following multiple allegations of sexual assault, extortion, and abuse of office.

According to a press release issued by LASG Ekobulletin, both individuals were permanently removed from their positions after investigations confirmed serious misconduct. The university stated that the action was taken to uphold student safety and institutional integrity.

The bulletin noted: “This outcome marks a powerful statement that no student must ever suffer in silence again.”

The statement also commended the efforts of the Vice Chancellor, the Dean of Student Affairs, and the Lagos State Government for supporting the decision and standing by the student community.

The statement also acknowledged the contributions of several student-led advocacy groups and stakeholders who played key roles in demanding accountability.

Recognised among them were SOA Students, CAMPUS ADVOCACY, Barrister Harty, the 35th LASUSU Students’ Parliamentary Council, NUESA-LASU stakeholders, and the 35th LASUSU Student Judicial Council.

The bulletin described the students’ efforts as courageous and instrumental in holding the institution accountable. It added that their actions have redefined student activism within the university.

In contrast, the release criticised certain student leaders who remained silent during the events, stating that their inaction served as a reminder of the consequences of compromised leadership.

The statement stated: “We must celebrate those union ‘leaders’ who chose silence over service, comfort over courage, and whose lips were sealed when students most needed them. Your remarkable talent for folding your arms while others do the work will surely remain an unforgettable lesson on what leadership must never become.”

bulletin concluded with a call to LASU students to continue electing leaders who will defend student rights and challenge injustice. It emphasised the need for leadership rooted in integrity and service, rather than performance or public image.