THE Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has apologised and expressed regret over her comment in a viral video concerning the sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar (Unical), Cross River State.
Following the developments, the university set up a panel to investigate the allegations of sexual harassment, lack of accountability and abuse of office.
Reacting to recent public discussions and reactions by concerned Nigerians regarding the allegations, involving Prof. Cyril Ndifon, the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law, which he has vehemently denied, the minister, during a television programme, threatened students testifying against the lecturer with dire consequences, including imprisonment, if they lied against him.
But the minister, in a statement she personally signed on Sunday, September 17 in Abuja, following public criticism of her comments, reiterated her commitment to justice and safeguarding and advancing the rights and welfare of Nigerian women, including the pursuit of justice whenever their rights were violated.
She reiterated her unwavering dedication to upholding due diligence and the rule of law, recognising that justice and fairness were the fundamental principles upon which equitable societies were built.
He stated: “I wish to express my sincere apologies to those who were offended by my comments and actions, regarding the sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar.
“This is extremely regrettable, as my intentions were sincere and aligned with my consistent advocacy for the welfare of Nigerian women and the pursuit of justice.
“I stand for all Nigerian women and I stand for justice and it is my hope that we can work together to actualise the dream of a country where women’s rights are respected and protected and where our daughters feel safe in institutions of learning.”
It would be recalled that during a recent appearance on television, the minister was unequivocal in her condemnation of sexual harassment and related offences and expressed deep concern over the escalating cases of sexual harassment across campuses, emphasising the need for decisive action, even as she assured that her ministry would actively seek justice for those affected.
