Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two of its senior academic staff members — Professor Olatunji Tajudeen Fasasi Abanikannada and Dr Khadeejah Olufunke Kareem‑Ibraheem — following investigations into serious allegations of student mistreatment, sexual harassment, and financial impropriety.
The decision was ratified at the university’s 143rd Statutory Governing Council meeting held on July 3, 2025, after recommendations by the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee.
Allegations Against Professor Abanikannada
Professor Abanikannada, a lecturer in the Faculty of Agriculture, was found guilty of subjecting final-year students to inhumane treatment by forcing them to remain on the university’s farm from as early as 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., regardless of harsh weather conditions and without provision for food or rest.
He was also accused of sexually harassing female students, verbally abusing both students and staff, and collecting unauthorised levies — all of which contravene LASU’s code of conduct for academic personnel.
Misconduct by Dr Kareem-Ibraheem
Dr Kareem-Ibraheem, also of the Faculty of Agriculture, was dismissed for dereliction of duty and financial misconduct. Investigations revealed that she failed to follow approved procedures for practical training and retained ₦10.6 million in proceeds from the sale of farm produce in her personal account instead of remitting the funds to the university.
University Response
The Registrar and Secretary to the Council, Mr Emmanuel Fanu, confirmed the dismissals, noting that the infractions constituted gross misconduct under LASU’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended).
LASU reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy for harassment and professional misconduct and restated its commitment to upholding academic integrity and student welfare.
Broader Impact
The dismissals follow calls from civil society and student groups, including the Take-It-Back Movement, for a thorough investigation into the treatment of agriculture students at the university. The development is seen as a critical step in safeguarding students and reinforcing accountability within the Nigerian higher education system.
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