The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Abayomi Fasina, is under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over serious allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by a female staff member. The investigation comes after a petition from a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) that has brought widespread attention to the case, sparking calls for transparency and accountability.
The controversy began when Engr. Folashade Adebayo, a married woman and the Deputy Director at the Directorate of Works and Services at FUOYE, accused Prof. Fasina of pressuring her for sex. According to sources, the female staff member had resisted the Vice Chancellor’s advances, leading to her removal from her position—a move that the CSOs argue was retaliatory and linked to the harassment.
“The case represents a critical test of our nation’s resolve to eradicate gender-based violence and foster accountability in public institutions,” stated a spokesperson for the coalition. The CSOs involved in the petition include prominent groups such as Gender Mobile Initiative, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, and Education as a Vaccine, among others. These organizations have raised concerns not only about the specific case but also about the wider issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian universities, calling for sweeping reforms in the handling of such allegations.
The petition, formally submitted on January 27, 2025, urges the ICPC to ensure an independent and transparent investigation into the allegations against Prof. Fasina. It also calls for protection and support for the victim, including access to legal, psychological, and social services. Furthermore, the CSOs are demanding the review of FUOYE’s internal policies on sexual harassment, and a full examination of how sexual harassment cases are managed within Nigerian universities.
“We believe that the current inquiry within the FUOYE Governing Council is biased,” the petition reads. “It is imperative that the investigation be conducted by an independent body with no vested interest in shielding the accused.” This statement underscores the CSOs’ lack of confidence in the internal processes at FUOYE, which they believe may be compromised due to institutional pressures.
The issue gained further traction when the CSOs addressed the petition to several key Nigerian authorities, including the Minister of Education, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Inspector-General of Police. The petition also called on both the Senate and House Committees to conduct legislative oversight on the matter to address systemic failures in handling sexual harassment cases.
In an official response, a source within the ICPC confirmed that the commission has taken the matter seriously. “We have received the petition and are giving it the attention it deserves. The allegations against Professor Fasina are indeed serious, and he will be invited next week for questioning,” the source revealed.
The allegations against Prof. Fasina have raised alarms about the broader culture of sexual harassment in academic institutions, where powerful figures often escape scrutiny. The petition has now garnered national attention, with many wondering if the ICPC will take decisive action or if the case will be buried under institutional pressures.
“Sexual harassment is a serious issue that has been ignored for far too long,” said one of the signatories to the petition. “We will continue to demand that the ICPC follow through with this investigation, and ensure that those responsible for any wrongdoing are held accountable. We cannot afford to let this case be swept under the carpet.”
The CSOs have made it clear that they will not rest until justice is served. “We are not backing down. This case is a fight for the rights of every woman who has faced harassment in silence,” the coalition spokesperson emphasized.
In the wake of the petition, FUOYE has yet to release a public statement regarding the investigation. However, the university’s Governing Council is reportedly preparing a response. Sources within the institution suggest that Prof. Fasina may seek legal counsel to defend himself against the allegations.
As the investigation proceeds, all eyes are on the ICPC, which has a track record of tackling corruption and abuse of office within Nigeria’s public institutions. Many have expressed hope that the commission will uphold the principles of justice, particularly for the victim in this case, and send a strong message about the nation’s commitment to ending workplace harassment.
The CSOs have also called for more comprehensive reforms in Nigerian universities, with a focus on stronger anti-harassment policies and better support systems for victims. “This case could set a precedent for how allegations of sexual harassment are handled in Nigerian universities,” one activist stated. “It’s time for real change.”
As the investigation heats up, the spotlight remains firmly on Professor Abayomi Fasina, and the growing calls for justice. With the ICPC poised to interview him next week, many are eager to see how the case unfolds and whether the university system can finally address the deep-rooted issue of sexual harassment.
