The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Abayomi Fasina, has filed a lawsuit seeking N250 million in damages in response to allegations of sexual harassment made against him. The legal action, filed in the Federal High Court, seeks to clear his name and hold the individuals responsible for what he describes as defamatory claims.
The allegations surfaced earlier this year when an anonymous letter, detailing the claims of sexual misconduct, was circulated widely on social media. In his court documents, Professor Fasina vehemently denied the accusations and argued that the allegations were false and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
“The allegations against me are baseless and malicious,” Professor Fasina stated in his legal filing. “These defamatory statements have caused significant personal distress and harm to my professional standing, and I am seeking justice through the legal system.”
The Vice Chancellor’s suit includes claims for damages resulting from the reputational harm, emotional distress, and disruption to his career caused by the allegations. His legal team has indicated that they intend to pursue the matter aggressively, holding the accusers accountable for the spread of what they term as “unfounded and damaging rumors.”
The case has drawn attention within academic circles and beyond, highlighting the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in addressing sexual harassment claims in institutions of higher learning. While Professor Fasina has called for due process, several civil society organizations have urged for a thorough and fair investigation into the matter, emphasizing that the rights and dignity of both the accused and the accuser must be upheld.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the university administration has refrained from making public statements, citing the ongoing nature of the case. However, sources within FUOYE suggest that the university is taking the issue seriously and will cooperate fully with the investigation as it progresses through the courts.
The outcome of this lawsuit is likely to have broader implications for how similar allegations are handled in Nigerian universities and public institutions.
source: vanguardngr.com
