The Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two academic staff members over allegations of gross misconduct, including sexual harassment, financial fraud, and inhumane treatment of students.
The decision was ratified during the university’s 143rd Statutory Governing Council meeting held on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
In a statement signed by the Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Emmanuel Fanu, and made available to Saturday PUNCH, the university disclosed that the disciplinary actions were taken following investigations that found both lecturers guilty of various offences.
One of the dismissed lecturers, Dr. Olatunji Abanikanda, who previously served as Dean of the Epe Campus in the Department of Agricultural Science, faced multiple allegations.
According to Fanu, Abanikanda was found guilty of subjecting 400-level students of the School of Agriculture to severe and inhumane conditions during farm practical sessions. Students were allegedly kept on the farm from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without food, water, or shelter, even during heavy rainfall.
He was also accused of sexually harassing female students, intimidating staff and students with threats, curses, and derogatory language, and illegally collecting money from staff and students, actions deemed highly unprofessional and against university regulations.
The misconduct came to public attention after a viral video surfaced online showing students under Abanikanda’s supervision left exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Also dismissed was Dr. Khadeejah Kareem-Ibraheem, Coordinator of the Department of Animal Sciences at the Epe Campus, who was found guilty of dereliction of duty and financial mismanagement.
Her alleged offences include failing to follow the university’s approved guidelines and curriculum and diverting proceeds from farm produce sales totaling over ₦10.6 million into her personal bank account instead of remitting the funds to the university.
“These actions, classified as ‘Serious Misconduct,’ violate the University’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended),” Fanu stated.
The LASU management reiterated its commitment to upholding academic integrity and maintaining high ethical standards across all levels of the institution.
