A lecturer identified as Dr. Kadiri is set to face arraignment on charges of alleged rape. The accused academic, whose full name remains undisclosed, has been accused of sexually assaulting a female undergraduate student during a meeting concerning her academic results.
The victim, whose identity is being protected, reported the harrowing incident to the Inclusive Social Welfare and Empowerment Foundation (InclusiveSWEF), a non-governmental organization. She alleged that instead of addressing her academic concerns, Dr. Kadiri assaulted her on August 16, 2023, while she visited his office.
Upon receiving the report, InclusiveSWEF took swift action and reported the case to the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command. Subsequently, the Officer in Charge of the Gender Unit obtained a warrant of arrest for the accused lecturer through the state High Court. Notably, this process also involved the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos.
Confirming the incident, Benjamin Hundeyin, the State Police Public Relations Officer, stated, “He is to appear in court in the coming days,” indicating that legal proceedings against the accused lecturer are imminent.
In response to these serious allegations, the University of Lagos issued a statement through its spokesperson, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem. The university acknowledged its awareness of an ongoing investigation involving one of its employees, as confirmed by a letter from the Nigeria Police Force received on August 28. In compliance with the authorities, the employee in question voluntarily appeared for questioning on August 29.
While the university expressed its commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation, it clarified that it does not possess the full details of the incident at this time. Nonetheless, UNILAG emphasized its dedication to ensuring that the matter is resolved in the pursuit of justice.
This incident has raised concerns about the safety and welfare of students within Nigerian universities and underscores the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation to deliver justice for the alleged victim. As the case unfolds, it will continue to draw the attention of the academic community and the wider public.
