The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigerian chapter of Transparency International, has applauded the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for securing the conviction of Prof. Cyril Ndifon, the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, over charges of sexual harassment and exploitation of female students.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC described the judgment as a “landmark conviction” that sends a strong warning that abuse of power within Nigeria’s academic system will no longer go unpunished. Rafsanjani noted that sexual harassment constitutes a form of gender-based corruption and stressed that no individual, regardless of office, should misuse their authority for personal favours.
“Lecturers have a duty of care towards their students and must uphold it at all times,” the statement read. “Institutions of learning must remain safe spaces for young people, especially young women who deserve dignity, respect, and protection.”
CISLAC called on victims and witnesses of sexual harassment to speak out and encouraged tertiary institutions to strengthen policies and reporting mechanisms that safeguard students. The organisation also highlighted its long-standing collaboration with the ICPC and other stakeholders through advocacy campaigns, sensitisation programmes, and its Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre (ALAC), which receives complaints, provides free legal guidance, and forwards verified cases to relevant authorities for appropriate action.
Rafsanjani further commended the Senate and House of Representatives of the 10th National Assembly for passing the Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institutions Bill. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assent to the bill once it is transmitted to the Presidency, stressing that its enactment would significantly curb the growing menace of sexual exploitation on campuses.
“The bill, once signed into law, will strengthen accountability and ensure that offenders face the full weight of justice,” he said.
CISLAC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting survivors, promoting institutional reforms, and ensuring that Nigerian campuses become environments where students can learn without fear of intimidation, exploitation, or abuse.