How LASU Dismissed Dean, One Other Over Sexual Harassment, Fraud, Inhumane Treatment of Students

The Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two senior academic staff members over multiple allegations ranging from sexual harassment and fraud to gross abuse of student welfare. The decision was approved at the 143rd Statutory Meeting of the university’s Governing Council held on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

According to a statement signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr. Emmanuel Fanu, the dismissal followed thorough investigations that found both lecturers guilty of serious misconduct that violated university regulations and ethics.

One of the dismissed staff members, Dr. Olatunji Abanikanda, who served as Dean of the School of Agriculture at the Epe Campus, was found guilty of degrading treatment of 400-level students during farm practicals. The university said students were kept on the farm from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without food, water, or shelter, even during torrential rainfall.

Fanu stated, “Dr. Abanikanda was dismissed over multiple allegations, including subjecting students to inhumane treatment, sexual harassment, unauthorised collection of money, and emotional abuse through threats and derogatory utterances — all acts unbecoming of a public officer of the University.”

Dr. Abanikanda’s dismissal also followed allegations of sexually harassing female students and threatening staff and students with abusive and profane language. A viral video had earlier shown students exposed to rain and sun during practicals, prompting widespread condemnation.

In a separate but related development, the university also dismissed Dr. Khadeejah Kareem-Ibraheem, Coordinator of the Department of Animal Sciences, for dereliction of duty and financial misconduct. She was accused of withholding over ₦10.6 million in farm proceeds, which she allegedly kept in her personal bank account in violation of LASU’s financial regulations.

“These acts, tantamount to ‘Serious Misconduct’, are in contravention of the University’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended),” the Registrar emphasized.