Dr. Mary Adehi, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Abuja, has called on students in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions to summon the courage to report cases of sexual harassment, stressing that silence only fuels the cycle of abuse and impunity.
Dr. Adehi made this passionate appeal while featuring as a guest on EthicsPod, the flagship anti-corruption podcast hosted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The episode, which focused on the prevalence and dangers of sexual misconduct within the academic environment, shed light on the urgent need for accountability and institutional reforms.
According to Dr. Adehi, sexual harassment in Nigerian higher institutions remains a pressing issue largely due to a combination of fear, stigma, and a lack of trust in justice mechanisms. “The menace of sexual harassment will only stop when students believe that justice will be served in their best interest and they find the courage to speak up,” she said.
She noted that perpetrators often rely on the silence of their victims to continue their misconduct. “The culture of silence must be broken,” she emphasized. “Students must know that they are not alone, and that there are legal, institutional, and social support systems available to protect them.”
Dr. Adehi also commended the ICPC and other stakeholders for intensifying efforts to combat sexual harassment in educational institutions through awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and institutional collaboration. She emphasized the importance of whistleblowing mechanisms, confidential reporting channels, and the establishment of safe spaces on campuses for survivors to come forward.
While acknowledging the fear of retaliation that many students face, Dr. Adehi urged school authorities and anti-corruption agencies to enforce strict sanctions against erring lecturers and staff, and to prioritize the welfare of victims.
She further encouraged student unions, civil society organizations, and gender advocacy groups to engage in continuous sensitization and support for students, especially new entrants who may be vulnerable to exploitation.
Click the link to watch the full video : https://youtu.be/e_xa4FZZ6rI?si=QMcAwAWValfQaRUQ