UNILAG withdraws controversial anti-rape advisory after public outrage

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a contentious advisory on sexual harassment that urged female students to avoid shaking hands with men, dressing provocatively and freely associating with members of the opposite sex, following widespread criticism that the message promoted victim-blaming.

The institution announced the withdrawal in a statement issued on Monday by the Head of its Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, stressing that the advisory did not represent the university’s official position or core values.

The controversial message, displayed on a roll-up banner by the Student Affairs Division, outlined what it described as precautionary measures against sexual harassment and rape. Among its recommendations were instructions to female students not to “shake hands anyhow with any man”, “dress to kill”, or “mingle carelessly with men.”

Images of the banner quickly circulated on social media, triggering strong reactions from Nigerians who accused the university of placing the burden of preventing sexual violence on women rather than addressing the actions of perpetrators.

Reacting to the backlash, the university said the material had been removed and distanced its management from the contents of the publication.

“The Management of the University of Lagos is aware of the concerns and public reactions generated by the circulation of an image showing a publication on sexual harassment,” the statement read.

“While the publication originated from the University’s Student Affairs Division, it has since been withdrawn because its content does not reflect the values, position or standards of the University of Lagos.”

UNILAG reaffirmed its commitment to protecting members of its community from sexual abuse, insisting that it has zero tolerance for rape, sexual harassment and every form of victim-blaming.

According to the university, suggesting that victims are responsible for acts of sexual violence or harassment is inconsistent with its institutional values and policies.

“The University of Lagos wishes to state unequivocally that we do not tolerate rape or sexual harassment in any form, nor do we support or encourage victim-blaming or victim-shaming. Holding victims responsible for the actions of offenders is unacceptable and contrary to the principles that guide this institution,” the statement added.

The withdrawal of the advisory comes amid growing public calls for tertiary institutions to strengthen policies that hold perpetrators of sexual misconduct accountable while providing better protection and support for victims.