In a shocking turn of events, a lecturer at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Dr Kadiri Akeem Babalola, has confessed to the heinous crime of raping a female student in his office. The incident has sent shockwaves through the academic community and raised concerns about the safety of students on campus.
The distressing incident unfolded when an undergraduate student approached Dr. Kadiri Akeem Babalola seeking assistance with issues related to her academic results. Instead of providing the academic guidance and support expected from an educator, the lecturer allegedly took advantage of the vulnerable student.
The victim, devastated by the traumatic experience, turned to the Inclusive Social Welfare and Empowerment Foundation (InclusiveSWEF), a non-governmental organization committed to supporting victims of abuse and injustice. InclusiveSWEF, upon hearing the victim’s harrowing account, took swift action to seek justice on her behalf.
InclusiveSWEF promptly reported the case to the Gender Unit of the state police command, where the Officer in Charge of Gender, in collaboration with the state Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, issued a warrant of arrest for Dr. Kadiri Akeem Babalola through the state High Court. Additionally, the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG was brought into the fold, given seven days to facilitate the apprehension of the accused.
It was during this period of intense scrutiny that Dr. Babalola reportedly admitted to the grave misconduct when summoned for questioning by the Vice Chancellor. Subsequently, the Vice Chancellor informed the police through the Chief Security Officer of the university, leading to the lecturer’s prompt arrest.
The case has prompted outrage and concern among students, faculty, and the wider community. Many are calling for a thorough investigation and the strictest legal measures to be taken against the accused lecturer. UNILAG and the police have pledged to work diligently to ensure justice is served for the courageous undergraduate who came forward to report the crime.
This disturbing incident highlights the urgent need for educational institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of their students and to take decisive action in cases of misconduct or criminal behaviour among staff members. It serves as a grim reminder of the responsibility educational institutions bear in fostering an environment where students can pursue their studies without fear or intimidation.
As the legal process unfolds, the hope is that justice will prevail, providing some measure of closure and healing for the victim, and sending a strong message that such reprehensible actions will not be tolerated within our educational institutions