The Minister for Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, issued an apology on Sunday regarding the controversy surrounding her comments in a viral video concerning the sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar. She expressed her commitment to justice and safeguarding the rights and welfare of Nigerian women, pledging to pursue justice when their rights are violated. Her response came after a coalition of over 500 gender rights activists, under the Womanifesto initiative convened by Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, demanded a retraction and public apology. They expressed concerns about the minister’s statements and their implications for vulnerable women and children in Nigeria.
In the video, the minister allegedly insinuated that students were being manipulated to remove the suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Cyril Ndifon, from office. She was heard threatening the students with dire consequences, including imprisonment, if they continued pursuing the sexual harassment case. The minister’s statement emphasized her commitment to due diligence and the rule of law, recognizing justice and fairness as fundamental principles of equitable societies. She expressed regret for any offense caused by her comments and actions, reiterating her dedication to advocating for women’s welfare and justice. She called for collaboration to ensure that women’s rights are respected and protected, especially in educational institutions. During a recent appearance on AIT, the minister condemned sexual harassment and emphasized the need for decisive action to address such cases.
