UNICAL VC Extends Olive Branch To Protesting Law Students; Prof. Ndifon Labels Sexual Harassment Claims As Manipulative Scheme

In the wake of recent protests that rocked the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Obi has extended an olive branch to the agitated students. Prof. Obi reassured the students that the university administration is committed to addressing their concerns and finding constructive solutions.

In her plea for tranquility, Prof. Obi emphasized the university’s eagerness to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the issues at hand. The administration acknowledges the importance of fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

However, the protests have not been without their share of internal divisions. Law student Miss Agatha Ayeni has expressed skepticism regarding the recent demonstration directed against the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Cyril Ndifon. Ayeni contends that the protest orchestrated by the President of the Law Students Association of Nigeria (LAWSAN), UNICAL branch, Comrade Benedict Otu, transpired without obtaining the necessary two-thirds majority approval required for such an action.

Meanwhile, a student named Sylvester, who initially participated in the protest, has since voiced regrets over his involvement. Allegedly lured into a meeting with the Vice Chancellor, Sylvester and his fellow protesters were confronted with placards bearing allegations against Dean Prof. Ndifon. Sylvester has expressed doubts about the authenticity of these accusations, hinting at potential manipulation for undisclosed motives.

Emmanuel Williams, another student, condemned the protest’s purported claims of sexual harassment against Prof. Ndifon. While acknowledging some concerns about the Law Journal and lecture availability, Williams dismissed the sexual harassment allegations as an unfounded smear campaign aimed at tarnishing the Dean’s reputation. He challenged the validity of the claims and urged any students who had experienced harassment to come forward and voice their grievances rather than relying on unsubstantiated accusations.

In response to the ongoing controversy, Prof. Cyril Ndifon, the Dean of the Law Faculty, vehemently denied any wrongdoing on his part. He categorically refuted the allegations brought forward by the protesters, asserting that they were based on falsehoods with the aim of tarnishing his standing. Prof. Ndifon alleged a conspiracy against him by certain individuals within the faculty who have repeatedly sought to undermine his position as Dean.

Prof. Ndifon further denounced the sexual harassment accusations as a calculated attempt to advance personal vendettas and undermine his authority. He remained resolute in his commitment to fulfill his responsibilities as Dean, irrespective of orchestrated attempts to discredit him.

Recall that the UNICAL law students had previously staged a protest on Monday, alleging sexual harassment, extortion, and lecturer absenteeism. The students directed their accusations at the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Cyril Ndifon. The demonstrators, dressed in black and white attire, held placards with various messages,  like “Ndifon Must Go”, “We Are Tired of Buying Law Journals”, “We Are Tired of Lecturers Not Attending Classes”, and “We Are Sexually Harassed”. urging the university to address their concerns.