- The bill stipulates a 14-year prison sentence for offenders convicted of sexual harassment
The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at tackling sexual harassment in the country’s tertiary institutions.
The proposed legislation, passed on Wednesday, seeks to prevent, prohibit, and redress cases of sexual misconduct involving students and educators
The bill stipulates a 14-year prison sentence for offenders convicted of sexual harassment. Additionally, heads of institutions found guilty of ignoring student complaints could face up to five years in prison or a fine of N5 million.
Speaking in Abuja, Akin Rotimi, the bill’s sponsor and spokesperson for the House, said the legislation is designed to safeguard ethical standards in education and protect the relationship of trust between students and educators. “The bill aims to protect students from sexual harassment by educators and ensures appropriate mechanisms for the redress of complaints,” he said.
The bill outlines several forms of misconduct that would be considered sexual harassment, including unwanted physical or verbal contact of a sexual nature, creating a hostile or intimidating environment through unsolicited advances, and displaying sexually explicit material.
Under the proposed law, those found guilty of serious offences could face up to 14 years in prison, while less severe offences carry a sentence of up to five years. The legislation seeks to ensure that no option for fines is available in cases of serious sexual misconduct.