The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) has urged the management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in the prosecution of dismissed lecturer, Professor Richard Akindele involved in sexual harassment.
Babatunde Irukera, the Director-General of CPC, made the appeal in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, in Abuja.
DAILY POST reports that the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife sacked Professor Richard Akindele for allegedly demanding sex from Monica Osagie to upgrade her mark.
Irukera, speaking on the university’s decision, said that this would serve as a deterrent to the pervasive pattern of behaviour on many campuses.
“In addition, and as a further deterrent, OAU and other learning institutions should commit to eradicating sexual harassment by establishing or institutionalising effective redress mechanisms.
“This should include secure whistle-blowing opportunities for such cases, to protect both students and faculty,” Irukera said.
The director-general also reiterated the need to address sexual harassment in institutions.
This, he said, would provide safe and liberal environments for students and ensure that the relationship between faculty and students.
“Both the approach of OAU and the outcome of its investigation convey the institution’s intolerance for despicable behaviour.
“The action would inspire confidence that going forward, such allegations would be thoroughly investigated, and when established, penalised to the full extent of the law.
“This exemplary response by OAU sets the standard and sends the appropriate message to other institutions, that learning and scholastic communities must be devoid of unacceptable behaviour, and that when such occurs, it will not be without consequence,” he added.
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