The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a controversial sexual harassment advisory issued to female students following widespread public criticism, stating that the publication does not reflect the institution’s values and reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment.
The university announced the decision in a statement released on Monday by the Head of its Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, after a roll-up banner produced by the Student Affairs Division sparked outrage on social media.
The advisory had listed several tips for female students on how to avoid sexual harassment and rape, including directives such as “Do not shake hands anyhow with any man,” “Do not dress to kill,” and “Do not mingle carelessly with men.”
The publication drew sharp criticism from members of the public, with many accusing the institution of promoting victim-blaming by placing the burden of preventing sexual harassment on potential victims instead of addressing the actions of perpetrators.
Responding to the backlash, the university clarified that although the material originated from its Student Affairs Division, it had been withdrawn because it does not represent the institution’s official position.
“The Management of the University of Lagos is aware of recent public concerns, commentary, and outrage following the circulation on social media of an image showing a publication on sexual harassment.
“We acknowledge that the publication was originally produced by the University’s Student Affairs Division. However, it has been withdrawn, as its content does not reflect the values, position, or standards of the University of Lagos,” the statement read.
UNILAG emphasized that it strongly condemns all forms of sexual harassment, rape, and victim-blaming.
“The University of Lagos wishes to state unequivocally, and for the record, that we do not tolerate rape or sexual harassment in any form, nor do we validate, engage in, or support victim-blaming or shaming.
“Placing the responsibility on victims or suggesting that individuals are to blame for being subjected to harassment is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the core values of our institution,” the university stated.
The institution described sexual harassment as a serious form of misconduct that has no place within the university community and stressed that such behaviour should never be trivialised.
It also noted that sexual harassment is not limited to any gender and can affect anyone within the university community.
The university encouraged students who have experienced or witnessed sexual harassment to make use of its official confidential reporting channels to ensure prompt investigation and appropriate support.
Reaffirming its commitment to student welfare, UNILAG said it remains dedicated to providing a safe, respectful, equitable, and inclusive environment where all members of its community can study, work, and thrive.
The university has, in recent years, recorded several high-profile allegations of sexual misconduct involving members of its community.
Among them was the case of a 20-year-old undergraduate who, in April, accused a lecturer, Dr. Samuel Ojogbo, of raping her in his office on campus. In 2019, five students of the institution were also arraigned over the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old student.
