Nigerian University Suspends Faculty Officer Over Sexual Harassment Allegation

Clifford University, located in Owerrinta, Abia State, has suspended a faculty officer, Mr. Obioma Nwogwgwu, following allegations of sexual harassment made by a 17-year-old female law student. The suspension, which took effect on May 29, 2025, was confirmed in an official statement from the university management.

The case was brought to light through petitions submitted to both the university and the Okpualangwa Divisional Police Headquarters by the Abia State chapter of the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation. In response, the university stated that Mr. Nwogwgwu has been placed on indefinite suspension and will soon appear before the institution’s staff disciplinary committee.

The university’s statement emphasized that all student results have been duly approved by the Senate and are available through the Registry, encouraging any concerned individuals to contact the Registry for result-related matters.

Reacting to the development, the Director of Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation in Abia State, Marvelous Ochiegbu, commended the university’s swift action but stressed the need for transparency and fairness throughout the investigation. He urged the university to involve his organization in the process to ensure accountability and prevent any attempt to cover up the issue. Ochiegbu also called for the protection of the female student from any form of victimisation.