The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Thursday led a protest in Abuja, demanding urgent action from the Federal Ministry of Education over sexual harassment allegations and alleged mismanagement at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Ekiti State.
The demonstration, held jointly with the National Association of University Students (NAUS), disrupted activities at the Ministry of Education for hours. The protesting students carried placards with inscriptions like “Fasina Must Go”, demanding the removal of FUOYE Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Abayomi Fasina.
Speaking to journalists, NANS spokesperson, Comrade Samson Adeyemi, said the crisis at FUOYE involves serious cases of sexual harassment, victimisation of whistle-blowers, and financial mismanagement. He accused the university management of shielding offenders and punishing those who speak out.
One of the major cases cited was that of Dr. Anthony Agbegbedia from the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies, who allegedly harassed a female student and failed her after she refused his advances. An external review of her script later showed she had passed. Instead of being punished, Dr. Agbegbedia was promoted.
Adeyemi also alleged a wider culture of abuse in FUOYE, including intimidation of staff, wrongful dismissals, embezzlement, and the suppression of student voices. He blamed the Vice-Chancellor for creating a hostile environment that led to the death of a student named Modupe, due to ignored security warnings.
NANS listed its demands as follows:
– Immediate sack of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Fasina.
– Suspension and full investigation of Dr. Agbegbedia.
– An independent panel to review harassment and victimisation cases.
= Legal protection for whistle-blowers and victims.
-A full financial audit of FUOYE by an anti-corruption agency.
Adeyemi warned that the protests will continue weekly at the Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the National Assembly until action is taken. He urged civil society groups and Nigerians to join the fight to save FUOYE and protect students across the country.
