Three lecturers at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), formerly known as Lagos State Polytechnic, have been dismissed over allegations of sexual harassment against female students.

The Guardian learnt yesterday that the university’s governing council approved the dismissals after a detailed investigation and internal review process confirmed the lecturers’ culpability.

Spokesperson for the institution, Dr Lanre Kuye, who confirmed the development, said the action was taken after careful deliberation by the university authorities. He identified the dismissed lecturers as Mr Nurudeen Hassan, Mr Kareem Arigbabu, and Mr Olayinka Uthman.

According to an official statement issued by the institution, the decision was in line with Section 5.5.2 (v) of LASUSTECH’s Senior Staff Conditions of Service.

“The Governing Council of Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) has taken decisive action in response to allegations of sexual harassment involving three staff members,” the statement read. “After a thorough investigation and deliberation, the council has approved the dismissal of: Mr Nurudeen Hassan, Mr Kareem Arigbabu, and Mr Olayinka Uthman.

“This decision, effective immediately, is under Section 5.5.2 (v) of the University Senior Staff Conditions of Service. The university takes allegations of sexual harassment seriously, as they compromise the institution’s image and disrupt the academic environment. The Governing Council’s decision reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful campus community.”

In a follow-up telephone interview with The Guardian, Dr Kuye reaffirmed the authenticity of the allegations and the institution’s zero-tolerance policy on such matters.

“The allegations are true and the affected lecturers have been dismissed immediately. The institution remains firm in its duty to protect students and uphold academic integrity. The Governing Council reiterated that it remains committed to ensuring a safe, ethical, and inclusive learning environment for all students and staff,” he said.

The university’s move has generated widespread reactions on social media, with many students and stakeholders praising it as a bold step toward eradicating abuse of power and safeguarding students on campus.