The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy, has found herself embroiled in controversy following accusations of interference in the sexual harassment scandal involving the suspended dean of the University of Calabar’s (UNICAL) law faculty, Prof. Cyril Ndifon.
In August, a wave of protests rocked UNICAL as primarily female students of the law faculty accused Prof. Ndifon of persistent sexual harassment. Subsequently, the university suspended Prof. Ndifon and convened a panel to investigate the allegations
However, reports suggest that Prof. Ndifon may be attempting to avoid accountability by seeking the support of Minister Uju Kennedy to intimidate the victims and derail the panel’s proceedings.
Kennedy has questioned the victims’ motives, suggesting they are conspiring with certain individuals, including the university’s vice-chancellor, to unjustly remove Prof. Ndifon from his position.In a leaked audio conversation between Minister Kennedy and one of the female law students, the minister is heard making threatening remarks. She warns the student against lying or changing her testimony, claiming she has recorded their conversation and that any false statements could result in jail time.
Kennedy maintains that her primary concern is ensuring justice prevails and that if Prof. Ndifon is found guilty, she will support appropriate action to address the situation.
The unfolding scandal raises questions about the role of individuals in positions of authority when handling sensitive matters and underscores the need for a fair and transparent investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment at UNICAL.
Kennedy asserts her authority in the matter, emphasizing her position as a minister and her involvement in the case.When questioned about the leaked conversation, Kennedy initially claimed it was a wrong number, despite TrueCaller identifying the number as hers.Kennedy further mentioned that she had received threats from over 10 individuals regarding the sexual harassment scandal. She stated that First Lady Oluremi Tinubu had ordered a thorough investigation into the allegations and assigned her Special Adviser on Women Affairs to oversee the matter.
