New Legislation Targets Sexual Harassment
In a significant move to combat sexual harassment in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, the House of Representatives has passed a bill aimed at preventing and addressing such offences. The legislation proposes a 14-year prison sentence for offenders convicted of sexual harassment, while institutional heads who fail to act on complaints could face five years in prison or a fine of N5 million.
Key Objectives of the Bill
During a press briefing in Abuja, Akin Rotimi, the bill’s sponsor and spokesperson for the House, explained that the law intends to uphold ethical standards within tertiary education. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding the student-educator relationship, stating, “This legislation aims to protect students from sexual harassment while promoting respect for human dignity in educational settings.”
Definition of Sexual Offences
The bill clearly defines sexual offences, stating that educators can be guilty of harassment if they engage in unwelcome physical contact or make inappropriate verbal advances toward students. It also outlines various forms of misconduct, including creating hostile environments and distributing sexually explicit materials, all aimed at protecting students from potential harm.
Consequences for Violators
According to the proposed legislation, anyone guilty of the outlined offences will face serious repercussions, including imprisonment ranging from five to fourteen years without an option of a fine. This strict approach underscores the government’s commitment to tackling sexual harassment effectively within educational institutions.
Additional Legislative Efforts
On the same day, the House also advanced a bill to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Lagos. Sponsored by Lanre Okunlola, this initiative aims to address the healthcare needs of the region’s growing population, emphasising the necessity for improved medical facilities to serve the community effectively.
Looking Ahead
The proposed legislation regarding sexual harassment will undergo further readings before it is transmitted to the Senate for approval. As these legislative efforts progress, the House of Representatives continues to demonstrate its dedication to enhancing the safety and well-being of students in Nigeria’s educational institutions.
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