The governing council of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has appointed a nine-member committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation in light of recent allegations of sexual harassment and victimisation involving Abayomi Fasina, the vice-chancellor of the institution.
According to a statement signed Folusho Ogunmodede, the public relations officer at FUOYE, the committee has been given three weeks to complete its findings, working within clearly defined terms of reference.
“As a respected citadel of learning that upholds integrity, fairness, and accountability, FUOYE assures the public that the investigation is progressing as planned. The committee has invited and engaged all relevant parties, including union representatives, to ensure a thorough review of the matter.
We encourage all parties to allow due process to take its course without interference, speculation, or misinformation. Under the leadership of Victor Ndoma-Egba, the chairman of the governing council remains committed to a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and misconduct,” the statement read in part.
In addition, Ogunmodede disclosed that the council is dedicated to maintaining FUOYE’s reputation as a distinguished academic institution in Nigeria, with policies in place to safeguard the rights and well-being of its university community.
“FUOYE remains focused on its primary goals of academic excellence, research development, and character building. While this investigation is ongoing, we reassure our students, staff, and stakeholders that the university continues to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment,” Ogunmodede stated.
The university assured the general public that further updates will be provided as necessary, ensuring transparency and accountability in the investigation and handling of the allegation.
Recall that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) had earlier in January commenced probe into the alleged sexual harassment case involving Fasina, a professor and vice-chancellor of the university.
The development followed a petition from a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) to ICPC. The anti-graft agency received the petition on Monday, January 27.
The petition was signed by the Gender Mobile Initiative, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, Education as a Vaccine, BIGIF, BraveHeart Initiative and Hope Behind Bars.
The groups said their intervention was aimed at eradicating gender-based violence and fostering accountability in public institutions.
(Business Day)
