UNICAL Sexual Allegation: ‘Desist from Interference’ – Amnesty International to Women Affairs Minister

The Minister of Women’s Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy Ohanenye has been urged by Amnesty International to desist from interfering with the ongoing investigation of Professor Cyril Ndifon, the suspended dean of Law at the University of Calabar over sexual cases brought up by female students of the faculty.

Mrs Kennedy was recorded threatening the female students who accused Professor Cyril Ndifon of sexually molesting them with imprisonment for speaking out.

In a statement, Amnesty International charged the management of the University to investigate thoroughly, impartially, and effectively and bring justice to the students who have been harassed and sexually molested by the suspended Dean.

“Amnesty International calls on Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs Uju Kennedy to desist from making comments, that may amount to direct interference with the ongoing investigation of allegations of sexual violence against some lecturers of the University Of Calabar. The authorities of the University of Calabar must ensure that all allegations of sexual harassment at the Faculty of Law and beyond are investigated thoroughly, promptly, impartially, and effectively.

“Survivors must be provided with adequate safeguards to seek justice. The protest by female students on Monday 14 August 2023 is an opportunity for the authorities of the University of Calabar to ensure justice for victims of the countless allegations of sexual harassment of students by lecturers.”

Reacting to the development, the Minister her comments in the viral video and reiterated her commitment to justice, safeguarding and advancing the rights and welfare of Nigerian women, including the pursuit of justice whenever their rights were violated.

“I wish to express my sincere apologies to those who were offended by my comments and actions regarding the sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar.

“This is extremely regrettable, as my intentions were sincere and aligned with my consistent advocacy for the welfare of Nigerian women and the pursuit of justice.”

Meanwhile, Professor Ndifon has shunned the invitation of the panel investigating him on the allegations laid on him by the female students of the Faculty of Law of the University of Calabar, Cross River State.