UNILAG withdraws ‘Do not shake hands’ anti-rape advisory after backlash

The University of Lagos has withdrawn its controversial sexual harassment advisory for female students following widespread criticism, stressing that the publication does not reflect the institution’s values and reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment.

The university made this known in a statement issued on Monday by the Head of its Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, following public outrage over a banner produced by the Student Affairs Division which advised female students on ways to avoid sexual harassment and rape.

It was earlier reported that the advisory, displayed on a roll-up banner within the university, urged female students to adopt precautionary measures, including “Do not shake hands anyhow with any man,” “Do not dress to kill,” and “Do not mingle carelessly with men.”

The publication attracted criticism on social media, with many accusing the institution of promoting victim-blaming by placing responsibility on potential victims instead of perpetrators.

Responding to the backlash, the university said it had withdrawn the publication.

“The Management of the University of Lagos is aware of recent public concerns, commentary, and outrage following the circulation on social media of an image showing a publication on sexual harassment.

“We acknowledge that the publication was originally produced by the University’s Student Affairs Division. However, it has been withdrawn, as its content does not reflect the values, position, or standards of the University of Lagos,” the statement read.

The institution said it does not condone rape, sexual harassment or any form of victim-blaming.

“The University of Lagos wishes to state unequivocally, and for the record that we do not tolerate rape or sexual harassment in any form, nor do we validate, engage in, or support victim-blaming or shaming.

“Placing the responsibility on victims or suggesting that individuals are to blame for being subjected to harassment is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the core values of our institution,” the university stated.

It described sexual harassment as serious misconduct that should never be trivialised.

“Sexual harassment is a serious misconduct that has no place in our community and must never be trivialised. We also recognise that sexual harassment is not gender-specific and can affect anyone.

“We, therefore, encourage any student who has experienced or witnessed sexual harassment to utilise the University’s official, confidential reporting structures to ensure immediate investigation and support,” the statement added.

The university reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

“The University of Lagos remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, equitable, and inclusive environment in which all members of its community can learn, work, and thrive,” the statement concluded.

UNILAG has, in recent years, recorded several cases of alleged sexual assault involving members of its community.