Senate Approves 14-Year Jail Term for Lecturers Guilty of Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Universities
In a landmark move to protect students from abuse, the Nigerian Senate has passed a bill proposing up to 14 years imprisonment for educators convicted of sexual harassment in tertiary institutions.
The legislation, titled the “Sexual Harassment of Students in Tertiary Educational Institutions (Prohibition and Prevention) Bill, 2025,” aims to establish strict legal frameworks to deter sexual misconduct and safeguard students across campuses nationwide.
Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) and transmitted from the House of Representatives, the bill reflects Nigeria’s growing commitment to creating safer academic environments for young people.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Under Clause 4, educators found guilty of sexual harassment face between five and fourteen years imprisonment, without the option of a fine.
The bill clearly defines what constitutes sexual harassment, including:
- Requesting or demanding sexual favors from students or prospective students.
- Making unwanted sexual advances or comments about a student’s physical appearance.
- Sending or displaying sexually explicit images or messages.
- Touching or pinching sensitive body parts such as the chest or hips.
The law also removes “consent” as a valid defense in educator-student relationships—except when the parties are legally married. Students are further empowered to seek civil damages alongside criminal prosecution.
Reporting and Institutional Responsibilities
Victims, guardians, or concerned individuals may file petitions directly to the Nigeria Police Force or the Office of the Attorney-General, with copies sent to the institution’s head and its Sexual Harassment Prohibition Committee.
Importantly, once a criminal case begins, tertiary institutions are prohibited from conducting parallel disciplinary proceedings until the court delivers its verdict.
Lawmakers React: “A Victory for Students”
During deliberations, senators hailed the bill as a major step toward restoring integrity in Nigeria’s education system.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) suggested extending similar legislation to workplaces and other sectors, arguing that protection against harassment should not be limited to campuses.
However, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) clarified that since the bill originated from the House of Representatives, the Senate could not alter its scope. He noted that other existing laws already address workplace harassment.
Deputy Senate Leader Lola Ashiru, who presented the bill on behalf of Bamidele, thanked his colleagues for supporting the initiative. He described it as a “necessary step to protect young Nigerians in learning spaces.”
What’s Next
With the Senate’s approval, the bill now moves to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent. Once signed into law, it will officially become a binding legislation designed to protect students and hold educators accountable.
This move marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s fight against sexual harassment in education — signaling zero tolerance for misconduct and renewed hope for safer, more respectful academic environments across the country.
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