A Nigerian lecturer with the Kabale University in Uganda, Dr Nafiu Lukman Abiodun, has been sacked by the university authorities after he was found guilty of involvement in a “sex for mark” scandal, the university said in a statement on Monday.
Dr Abiodun who was the Head Department of Economics and Statistics in the Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, and also the Director of Research at the university, was reportedly found guilty of sexual harassment following a probe panel put in place to investigate several allegations levelled against him.
The don ran into troubled waters when some of the female students in his department discreetly recorded him on phone demanding sex with the promise to pass them in examinations.
“He was interdicted mid-year to paveway for investigations into complaints that he was demanding sex from female students in exchange for marks. It was revealed that Dr Lukman Abiodun would give retakes to female students that refuse his demands,” a local media in the eastern African country reported.
“In a November 11, 2022, letter addressed to Dr Abiodun, the University Secretary, Canon Johnson Munono Byaryantuma, said that investigations found him guilty of sexual harassment, failure to follow examination regulations and professional guidance.
“Kabale University Chancellor Joy Constance Kwesiga, confirmed the development when contacted but declined to divulge details, saying that they have information that Lukman may petition the school,” the report said.
The letter sacking Dr Abiodun and signed by the University Chancellor reads in part:
“I regret to inform you that the Appointments Board of Kabale University Under Min 598160/AB/21122 found you guilty of sexual harassment, failure to follow examination regulations, and professional negligence.
“The board, therefore, directed you be severely reprimanded and your interdiction be lifted.
“The board further resolved not to renew your contract as a Senior Lecturer of Statistics when it expires on 11 November, 2022. You are, therefore, required to hand over all University property in your possession to the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management Science in the presence of the financial auditor.”