The sanctions followed investigations into complaints from students and internal disciplinary panels, as institutions stepped up efforts to curb abuse of authority by academic staff.

Among the most notable cases is that of Prof. Richard Akindele, a former lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), who was dismissed and later convicted after demanding sexual favours from postgraduate student Monica Osagie in exchange for academic marks. The scandal became a watershed moment in Nigeria’s fight against sex-for-marks. At the University of Lagos (UNILAG), former lecturers Dr. Boniface Igbeneghu and Dr. Samuel Oladipo were suspended after an undercover investigation exposed allegations of sexual misconduct. The investigation, led by journalist Kiki Mordi, sparked nationwide outrage and renewed demands for reforms.

Several other institutions have also taken disciplinary action against staff accused of similar offences. The University of Abuja dismissed two professors over allegations that included sexual harassment and examination malpractice, while Modibbo Adama University sanctioned two lecturers for misconduct. Abia State University terminated the appointment of a senior lecturer over allegations involving sex-for-marks and admission fraud, and Tai Solarin University of Education suspended a lecturer facing similar accusations. Auchi Polytechnic also disciplined members of its academic staff following investigations into reported cases.

Despite the growing number of disciplinary measures, education stakeholders believe many incidents still go unreported due to fear of intimidation, victimisation and possible academic retaliation. Advocacy groups have continued to push for stronger institutional safeguards, including confidential reporting channels, better protection for survivors, prompt investigations and stricter enforcement of anti-sexual harassment policies across all higher institutions.

While the increasing number of sanctions signals a tougher stance against sexual misconduct in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, experts argue that sustained reforms remain essential. They say lasting progress will depend on transparency, accountability and consistent enforcement of institutional policies to ensure students can pursue their education in safe and respectful learning environments.