The National Women Committee of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has strongly condemned allegations of sexual harassment against Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE). The committee has called for his immediate suspension to facilitate a fair investigation. In a statement by the National Women Coordinator, Comrade Ijeoma Basil Kalu, SSANU described the alleged actions as a “shameful abuse of power” and an attack on the dignity and rights of women within academic institutions.

The committee criticized the current investigation panel set up by the university council, labeling it biased and geared toward fault-finding rather than seeking justice. They demanded a reform of the panel to ensure impartiality. The allegations against Prof. Fasina involve inappropriate remarks and persistent advances toward a female staff member, despite her clear rejections. SSANU provided evidence of the alleged harassment, including statements made by the Vice-Chancellor such as “I like you,” “I am dying for you,” and “Forget you are a married woman.”

The union has called for the immediate suspension of the Vice-Chancellor, a reconstitution of the investigation panel, and the reversal of the suspensions of the SSANU Branch Chairperson and Secretary, Comrades Ben Faleye and Ayomikum Aluko, who were acting within their duties. They also demanded enhanced protection for female staff against harassment and intimidation.

SSANU appealed to relevant bodies such as the Federal and State First Ladies’ offices, the Minister of Education, the Minister of Women Affairs, and other groups to investigate the matter. They reiterated their commitment to advocating for a safe and just workplace for women.

SaharaReporters also reported that the ultimatum given to the FUOYE committee investigating the matter had expired, and SSANU criticized the panel for not focusing on the core issue of sexual harassment but instead investigating the source of media reports about the incident. The union called for the suspension of Prof. Fasina and the removal of certain committee members to ensure a fair investigation. They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the investigation process to uphold ethical standards and ensure justice for the victim.