UNILAG Withdraws Controversial Sexual Harassment Publication

By Adegbuyi Fathia

The Management of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a publication on sexual harassment earlier released by the institution’s Division of Students’ Affairs, following widespread criticism on social media.

Titled, “Counseling Tips for Ladies to Avoid Sexual Harassment/Rape,” the office of the Students’ Affairs had advised ladies on how to dress, saying that “don’t dress to kill, your dress is your address.”

The controversial material also had phrases like, “don’t shake hands anyhow with any man; mingle carelessly with men; stay alone with a man in a hidden place; accept gifts frequently from men,” among others.

Following the surfacing of the message online, netizens called out UNILAG, arguing that the message amounts to “victim-blaming,” while “no caution was given to the male counterpart.”

In a statement on July 27, the management of the institution said that “it rejects all forms of victim-blaming.”

The statement reads: “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“However, it has been withdrawn; as its content does not reflect the values, position, or standards of the University of Lagos.”

UNILAG noted that it upholds its stance on the issue, adding that it does not tolerate rape, sexual harassment, or victim-blaming.

“Sexual harassment is a serious misconduct that has no place in our community and must never be trivialised,” the statement reads.

The university urged students who have experienced or witnessed sexual harassment to report through its official and confidential channels for immediate investigation and support.

The institution added that it remains dedicated to maintaining a campus environment that is safe, respectful and inclusive for learning and work.