The Lagos State University (LASU) Governing Council has dismissed two senior academic staff members over allegations of gross misconduct, including student abuse, sexual harassment and financial impropriety.
EpeInsights learnt that the decision, which was made public following the Council’s 143rd Statutory Meeting on Thursday, July 3, 2025, affects Prof. Olatunji Tajudeen Fasasi Abanikannda, Dean of the School of Agriculture at the Epe Campus, and Dr. Khadeejah Olufunke Kareem-Ibraheem, Lecturer I and Coordinator of the Department of Animal Sciences at the same campus.
Prof. Abanikannda was found guilty of subjecting 400-level students to inhumane farm practical conditions.
Reports claim he forced them to work from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without food or water, even during torrential rainfall.
He was also accused of sexual harassment toward female students, using derogatory language towards both students and staff, and unauthorized collection of money from students.
One student, speaking anonymously, described the experience as “a place of suffering, not learning.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Kareem-Ibraheem faced allegations of diverting over ₦10.6 million from farm produce sales into her personal bank account.
She also failed to implement the approved Farm Practical Year (FPY) curriculum, which is a key aspect of the students’ agricultural training.
A faculty member familiar with the case expressed shock, saying, “The amount traced to her account was staggering. It was a total betrayal of trust.”
In a statement signed by Registrar Emmanuel A. Fanu, the University confirmed that both dismissals took effect on July 3, 2025, stating that their actions were a violation of LASU’s Conditions of Service for Senior Staff.
The statement emphasized that LASU remains committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and protecting the dignity of its academic community.
“LASU remains committed to protecting the dignity of its academic community and maintaining high standards of professionalism,” the statement read.
Students and staff at the Epe Campus have since expressed relief and praised the university management for taking swift action.
One staff member remarked, “It sends a strong message that this institution won’t tolerate abuse of power.”
This move serves as a strong statement from LASU that it will not tolerate misconduct, abuse of power, or any actions that compromise the safety and welfare of students. By taking such decisive action, LASU aims to reinforce its commitment to academic excellence and ethical behavior.
As the university continues to work toward maintaining a safe and productive environment, it reminds us all that integrity and professionalism must always go hand-in-hand with education.
