The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has officially retracted a problematic advice document issued by its Student Affairs Division. This decision follows significant backlash after images of the publication, which suggested that female students should modify their behavior to avoid harassment, went viral on social media earlier this week.
The document, titled “COUNSELLING TIPS FOR LADIES: TO AVOID SEXUAL HARASSMENT/RAPE,” advised students against actions such as “dressing to kill,” accepting frequent gifts, or being alone with men. Critics argued these points effectively promoted victim-blaming. This controversy arises alongside ongoing legal proceedings, including a recent case at the Ikeja High Court where a 20-year-old student testified against a lecturer, Samuel Ojogbo, regarding allegations of sexual assault.
In a formal statement, the university’s Head of Communications, Adejoke R. Alaga-Ibraheem, confirmed the withdrawal of the material. The management stated that the content did not represent the school’s core values or its stance on student safety. The administration emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward sexual misconduct, noting that responsibility for harassment lies solely with the perpetrator.
UNILAG reaffirmed that it does not endorse victim-blaming and pledged to uphold an inclusive, respectful environment. Furthermore, the university encouraged students to utilize established, confidential reporting channels for any incidents of misconduct. This event has sparked a wider discussion among stakeholders regarding the need for survivor-focused policies across Nigerian universities.
