LASU Dismisses Two Lecturers Over Misconduct

Lagos State University has dismissed two members of staff for gross misconduct, including sexual harassment, financial impropriety, and dereliction of duty.

The decision was approved during the university’s 143rd Statutory Meeting of the Governing Council, held on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Emmanuel Fanu, the affected staff members were found guilty of various offences, including inhumane treatment of students, sexual harassment, and financial mismanagement.

One of those dismissed is Dr. Olatunji Abanikanda, who served as the Dean of the Epe Campus, School of Agriculture, prior to his dismissal. Abanikanda was accused of subjecting students to degrading conditions during their practical coursework on the university farm.

According to the statement, Abanikanda’s actions included keeping 400-level students on the farm from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without breaks, food, or water, even during periods of heavy rainfall. The incident, which was captured in a video circulated on social media, raised significant concerns about student welfare.

In addition to this, Abanikanda faced allegations of sexual harassment of female students, as well as the use of threats, derogatory language, and profane utterances toward staff and students. He was also found guilty of the unauthorised collection of money from staff and students, contrary to university regulations.

The second staff member, Dr. Khadeejah Kareem-Ibraheem, former Coordinator of the Department of Animal Sciences, School of Agriculture, Epe Campus, was dismissed for dereliction of duty and financial misconduct. She was accused of failing to adhere to the university’s approved procedures, guidelines, and curriculum, as well as withholding proceeds from the sale of farm produce.

The statement revealed that over ₦10.6 million generated from farm produce sales was kept in her personal bank account, in violation of university financial regulations.

Fanu stated that these actions constitute “Serious Misconduct” and are in breach of the university’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended).

1. The University Management reiterated its commitment to upholding high standards of academic and administrative conduct within the institution.