The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a controversial anti-sexual harassment advisory issued by its Student Affairs Division following widespread criticism that it promoted victim-blaming by placing the burden of preventing sexual harassment on female students.
The advisory, displayed on a roll-up banner titled “Counselling Tips for Ladies to Avoid Sexual Harassment/Rape,” advised women to avoid certain behaviours, including dressing “to kill,” shaking hands with men, accepting gifts, seeking favours, staying alone with men in secluded places, and consuming intoxicants.
The banner, which circulated widely on social media, sparked public outrage, with critics arguing that it focused on restricting women’s behaviour instead of addressing the actions of perpetrators.
Responding to the backlash on Monday, the university said the advisory had been produced by its Student Affairs Division but had been withdrawn because it did not reflect the institution’s values or official position.
In a statement signed by the Head of the Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, UNILAG reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and condemned all forms of victim-blaming.
“The University of Lagos wishes to state unequivocally that we do not tolerate rape or sexual harassment in any form, nor do we validate, engage in, or support victim-blaming or shaming,” the statement read.
The institution described sexual harassment as a serious misconduct that has no place within its community, noting that it is not gender-specific and can affect anyone.
UNILAG also encouraged students who have experienced or witnessed sexual harassment to report such incidents through the university’s confidential reporting channels to facilitate prompt investigation and support.
The university reiterated its commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful learning environment for all members of its community.
