CAJA Demands Independent Probe into Alleged Sexual Harassment at MAAUN
The Centre for Awareness on Justice and Accountability (CAJA) has called for an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into allegations of attempted sexual harassment involving a lecturer at Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN) and a female student said to be under his academic supervision.
In a press statement issued on Thursday by its Advocacy and Communication Officer, Adam Auwal Dakata, the organisation expressed concern over the allegations, stressing that sexual harassment in tertiary institutions threatens students’ dignity, safety and academic freedom.
According to CAJA, such incidents undermine confidence in educational institutions and foster an atmosphere of fear and intimidation that is incompatible with learning and personal development.
The organisation, however, stressed that while allegations of sexual misconduct must be taken seriously, investigations should be conducted through a fair, impartial and credible process that protects the rights of all parties involved.
CAJA urged the management of MAAUN to immediately establish an independent investigative committee comprising representatives of the university management, academic staff, student body, legal practitioners where necessary, gender and safeguarding experts, as well as other individuals of proven integrity.
It said the committee should be mandated to carry out a thorough, transparent and timely investigation and make recommendations that would ensure justice is served in line with the law and the university’s regulations.
The group also called on the university to guarantee the protection of the complainant, witnesses and other parties from intimidation, victimisation or retaliation throughout the investigation, noting that such safeguards are essential to preserving the credibility of the process and maintaining confidence within the university community.
Beyond the current allegations, CAJA urged MAAUN and other tertiary institutions across Kano State to strengthen and effectively implement comprehensive policies for preventing and addressing sexual harassment.
According to the organisation, such policies should clearly define prohibited conduct, establish accessible and confidential reporting channels, ensure fair investigative procedures, provide adequate support for survivors, protect complainants against retaliation, and prescribe appropriate sanctions where misconduct is established.
It further recommended that the policies be inclusive, regularly reviewed and widely publicised to ensure that students, academic and non-academic staff, governing councils and other stakeholders are fully aware of their rights, responsibilities and available complaint procedures.
CAJA concluded by urging all stakeholders to allow due process to take its course while remaining committed to accountability, transparency and justice.
