Kogi Government Takes Action Against Sexual Harassment In Universities

Kogi Government Takes Action Against Sexual Harassment In Universities

The Kogi State Government has issued a strong warning against sexual harassment in tertiary institutions throughout the state. The Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Wemi Jones, made this announcement during a meeting with educational leaders in Lokoja on Tuesday. The meeting focused on adopting a model anti-sexual harassment policy and integrating campus safety initiatives……CONTINUE READING 

Jones highlighted that sexual harassment has become deeply entrenched in Nigerian society and stressed that the current administration is committed to addressing the issue in Kogi State. He noted that the meeting aimed to gain support from institutional heads for the new policy and framework.

He pointed out that sexual harassment persists largely due to victims’ fear of stigmatization and reluctance to report incidents. The Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with state commissioners, the Independent Corrupt Practices & Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI), is working to reduce and eventually eliminate sexual harassment, particularly in tertiary institutions.

Jones also noted that harassment occurs in various forms, not limited to any gender. The recent federal initiative to tackle sexual harassment has prompted state governments to adapt and implement these policies locally. Kogi State is known for its prompt adoption of federal policies, such as the extension of teachers’ service years and the establishment of the Senior Secondary Education Commission.

Jones emphasized the need for a comprehensive document to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment in Kogi’s schools and reaffirmed the state’s zero tolerance for sexual harassment.