In Nigeria’s government-owned tertiary institutions, students face a lot of troubling realities such as sexual harassment and coercion from lecturers. Despite the financial challenges, poor learning conditions in these tertiary institutions and other ‘sheges’ students face, this issue remains pervasive and deeply concerning. When will these unsettling realities of a regular Nigerian student end?
For many students, the practice of lecturers demanding sex in exchange for grades has become alarmingly normalised. Statements such as, “As long as I do not fail,” or, “it’s a win-win situation so I just accept it,” “let me give him want he wants,” reflect a disturbing tolerance of this abuse. In a just society, such behaviour would be inconceivable and unacceptable.
The issue of “sex for grades” is not discussed adequately, particularly among female students. Numerous cases have been reported where students are threatened by lecturers when they refuse to comply with such demands. This problem appears to be more widespread in federal and state institutions compared to private universities, raising concerns about whether government-funded institutions address sexual harassment with real seriousness.
Some male lecturers have adopted predatory behaviour, viewing female students as targets for their personal gratification. Victims often fear to speak out due to intimidation. Although sex for grades is not exclusively gender-based, females are disproportionately affected.
Despite the suspension and prosecution of some offending lecturers, the problem remains deeply ingrained. Many institutions prioritise their public image over addressing these issues, resulting in a façade of reform while the core issues remain unaddressed.
The government must take a stronger stance against this widespread abuse. It is imperative to raise awareness and to enforce measures that protect students and hold offenders accountable.
Comfort Akinreti, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife.
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