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The investigative panel set up by the authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, over alleged sexual harassment by Mr Olabisi Olaleye, a lecturer in the Department of International Relations, has submitted its reports to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede.
The institution’s Public Relations Officer(PRO), Mr Abiodun Olarewaju, made the disclosure to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He said the Provost of the Postgraduate College of the University, Prof. Yetunde Ajibade, while presenting the reports, lauded the university’s administration for the confidence reposed in the panel and creating enabling environment for them to discharge their duties without fear or favour.
Olanrewaju, acknowledged the tireless sacrifice made by members of the panel and commended them for a job well done. He added that the Vice-Chancellor reinstated the commitment of his administration to zero tolerance for any form of sexual and emotional harassment.
Ogunbodede was quoted as urging any student or member of the university’s community to avail themselves of the opportunity the open door policy of the present administration by reporting any infringement on their rights by anyone to the appropriate organ of the institution for possible investigation and redress.
Also, the PRO stated that the authorities of the institution will present the findings of the panel to the Academic and Promotion Committee of the University for deliberations and recommendations, adding that the committee would, in turn, present the outcome to the university’s governing council for the final decision.
The Vice-Chancellor thanked the public for their interest in the institution and pledged to always preserve the academic sanctity and intellectual integrity of the university as laid down by the founding fathers.
“And concerning the issue at hand, we are unequivocally committed to making the final decision on it known to the public, ” he said.