Nigeria | PCC launches proactive investigation into alleged sexual harassment of female students by the Dean Faculty of Law-University of Calabar

In response to the protest carried out by students of the faculty of law, University of Calabar, on Monday 14 August 2023, the Proactive Investigation Unit of the Cross River State office of the Public Complaints Commission led by the Honourable Commissioner of the State, Hon. Obi Steve Owan, paid a visit on Tuesday 15 August 2023, to the Vice Chancellor University of Calabar, Prof. (Mrs) Florence Obi in her office.

In his speech, the Hon. Commissioner commended the Vice Chancellor for her exemplary leadership and expressed his displeasure that the visit was coming at a point where there is a negative trend about the university.

He, however, stated that the visit, which was necessary to rebuild the image of the institution, was primarily to find the truth regarding the recent protest by students and the allegations raised against lecturers concerning sex for marks.

The Hon. Commissioner further disclosed that the visits were also to create a synergy with the institution and also requested that in the course of investigating the alleged scandal, the VC should carry the Commission along because it has the mandate to report such issues to the National Assembly.

In her response, the VC of the Institution expressed her delight for the visit and stated that since the incident occurred, all the principal officers in the board have been on their toes to resolve the matter. In her words, “the Commission came in the nick of time”.

She further disclosed that the institution has taken some decisions on the matter, and told the Commission that no committee has been constituted to deal with the matter but that when that is done; a representative of the Commission would form part of the committee to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted.

The Climax of the visit was the exchange of phone contacts and group photographs.

Efforts are still being made to reach the President of the Law Student Association who led the protest for comments to enable the Commission determine the case.

Source: Public Complaints Commission (Ombudsman) of Nigeria