In a move that has left the academic community reeling, Lagos State University, LASU, has taken decisive action against two of its senior academic staff members. Amidst serious allegations involving sexual harassment and financial impropriety, the university has dismissed Prof. Olatunji Tajudeen Fasasi Abanikanda and Khadeejat Kareem-Ibraheem. This development marks a significant chapter in upholding institutional integrity.

Allegations and Investigations

The decisions, taken during LASU’s 143rd Statutory Governing Council meeting, were the climax of a thorough six-week internal investigation. Initiated by a formal petition from Taofeek Adekunle of the advocacy group Take It Back Movement, these investigations unearthed disturbing patterns of behavior that shattered the code of conduct expectations.

Prof. Abanikanda’s Inhumane Practices

Among the allegations, Prof. Abanikanda faced scrutiny for inhumane practices during agricultural fieldwork, forcing students to endure long, grueling hours without basic necessities like food and shelter. Such conditions were reported as existing even during torrential rain, posing both ethical and campus security risks. His conduct extended beyond academic negligence to include sexual harassment and verbal abuse.

Financial Misconduct Revealed

Kareem-Ibraheem, found guilty of financial misconduct, failed to adhere to university protocols, accumulating over N10 million in revenue from farm produce sales into her personal account. This egregious breach highlighted significant lapses in maintaining ethical financial practices.

Upholding Institutional Standards

As stated in Daily Post Nigeria, these breaches deeply undermine LASU’s standards, threatening the core values the institution strives to protect. The university’s decision to dismiss these individuals underlines its commitment to restoring trust and ethical conduct within its walls.

The Road Ahead

This situation serves as a critical lesson for educational institutions everywhere, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and ethical behavior. The rigorous investigation and subsequent action taken by LASU set a precedent for addressing misconduct swiftly and decisively, ensuring a reliable environment for academic and personal growth.

The academic community and stakeholders alike watch closely to ensure that corrective measures are implemented, shaping a safer, more ethical academic future for all. With these firings, LASU sends a loud and clear message: misconduct of any nature will not be tolerated, reinforcing a standard that aligns with its esteemed reputation.