UNILAG makes U-turn, withdraws sexual harassment poster after public outrage

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn its controversial sexual harassment advisory for female students following widespread public criticism, saying the publication does not represent the institution’s values and reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and victim-blaming.

The university announced the withdrawal in an Information Flash signed on Monday by the Head of the Communication Unit, Adejoke R. Alaga-Ibraheem, on behalf of the university management.

According to the statement, the publication, which was produced by the Student Affairs Division and circulated on social media, has been withdrawn after attracting public concern and backlash.

“We acknowledge that the publication was originally produced by the University’s Student Affairs Division. However, it has been withdrawn, as its content does not reflect the values, position, or standards of the University of Lagos.

“The University of Lagos wishes to state unequivocally, and for the record that we do not tolerate rape or sexual harassment in any form, nor do we validate, engage in, or support victim-blaming or shaming. Placing the responsibility on victims or suggesting that individuals are to blame for being subjected to harassment is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the core values of our institution.”

The institution stressed that sexual harassment remains a serious offence that has no place within its community and should never be trivialised, adding that anyone can become a victim regardless of gender.

“Sexual harassment is a serious misconduct that has no place in our community and must never be trivialised. We also recognise that sexual harassment is not gender-specific and can affect anyone. We, therefore, encourage any student who has experienced or witnessed sexual harassment to utilize the University’s official, confidential reporting structures to ensure immediate investigation and support.

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“The University of Lagos remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, equitable, and inclusive environment in which all members of its community can learn, work, and thrive.”

The reversal comes hours after the university’s Student Affairs Division issued counselling tips for female students on preventing sexual harassment and rape on campus.

Displayed on a roll-up banner within the institution, the advisory encouraged female students to adopt precautionary measures, with one of its most criticised messages stating, “Do not shake hands anyhow with any man.”

Other messages on the banner read: “Do not dress to kill. Do not shake hands anyhow with any man. Do not mingle carelessly with men. Do not stay alone with a man in a hidden place. Do not seek unnecessary favour from men. Do not join to watch pornographic film/pictures. Do not accept intoxicants and be vigilant when you are served with drinks. Do not give in to pressure – be assertive.

“Learn to say no. One-time sex can cause you pregnancy; if you don’t want it, don’t try it.”

The Student Affairs Division had said the advisory formed part of its counselling efforts to educate female students on personal safety and ways to reduce the risk of sexual harassment and rape on campus.