A Nigerian professor who allegedly offered to change a student’s marks in return for sexual favours has been dismissed from his position.
Richard Akindele was fired from his job as an accounting lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in south-western Nigeria after Monica Osagie decided to publish a conversation in which he said he would increase her grades if she slept with him.
The recording went viral, prompting comments in parliament and across social media.
The “scandalous” behaviour had, OAU Vice-Chancellor Eyitope Ogunbodede said in a statement, “brought ridicule to the name of the university” and “tarnished” its reputation.
According to Professor Ogunbodede, Professor Akindele said Miss Osagie knew she had passed but “was seeking to score an A” and was actually sexually harassing him.
However, the vice-chancellor said this version of events “cannot be supported by any evidence”.
Professor Akindele has not yet commented on the findings.
Biola Akiyode, who is representing Miss Osagie, told CNN she was “very happy” with the outcome of the hearing.
“This is a huge victory, not just for Monica but for other students,” Ms Akiyode said.
“This victory should encourage any student, no matter if they are university or secondary school students to speak out.
“What Monica did was very brave and I hope lecturers will now see that there are consequences to their actions.”
The university has since launched a campaign against sexual harassment.
