The Consumer Protection Council has commended prompt actions by the management of Obafemi Awolowo University in the alleged sexual harassment of one of its female students.
The Director-General of CPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera, gave the commendation on Monday in a statement signed by Mr. Abiodun Obimuyiwa, CPC Head of Media.
Irukera said the council had keenly followed the raging controversy regarding the sexually and emotionally abusive conduct of demanding, and or providing sexual gratification in exchange for favourable grades in school.
He noted that the widely discussed controversy underscored an allegedly pervasive practice.
Recently, there had been a leaked and widely circulated audio clip that appeared to have captured a telephonic conversation or ‘negotiation’ between a female student and a member of the faculty at OAU, Ile Ife.
The audio clip had been authenticated and both the member of the faculty and student/victim had been identified.
According to Irukera, “CPC notes the prompt actions taken by the authorities of OAU and commends the responsiveness so far displayed, in addressing a rather insidious and predatory incident.
“The Council further welcomes the expressed commitment of OAU to an open and transparent investigation, as well as the promise to publish the outcome of the investigation.
“The Council encourages OAU to ensure this investigation is broad, balanced and inclusive.”
Irukera urged the management of the school to include people and views from all relevant stakeholders in handling the case to promote confidence, equity and fairness.
He named such stakeholders to include faculty, professional disciplinary bodies, student representation, relevant civil society specialising in sexual harassment, gender objectification, consumer protection and institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission.
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