The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and civil society organization, Gender Mobile have joined forces to develop actionable policies and measures to tackle the increasing incidents of sexual harassment in Nigerian schools.
At a stakeholder engagement on sexual harassment prevention held in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in sexual harassment cases within Nigerian educational institutions.
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Dr. Sununu cited the World Bank records which indicate that approximately 70 percent of students have experienced sexual harassment, underscoring the urgent need to update policies and programs to address this critical issue.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenya, while highlighting the role of mobile courts set up in schools by the federal government is itching to expedite justice for victims of sexual harassment. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.
Victor Obuzor, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Civil Society, emphasized the importance of a united front against sexual harassment. He assured that the House is committed to enacting appropriate laws to curb the rising cases of sexual harassment.
ICPC Chairman, Musa Aliyu, stressed that consistency and perseverance are crucial in tackling sexual harassment and other social vices in Nigeria.
He noted that the commission is currently prosecuting two lecturers, though challenges remain as many students hesitate to report incidents due to fear. He assured that a bill before the National Assembly if passed, would offer protection to victims.
Omowunmi Ogunrotimi, founder of Gender Mobile, stated that the partnership aims to translate policies into actions to combat sexual harassment. She noted that in Nigeria, policies often remain unimplemented.
The stakeholder engagement drew commissioners of education from across the 36 states of the federation, representatives of vice-chancellors, and other officials from tertiary institutions nationwide.
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