The National Assembly has passed a bill criminalising “sex-for-grades” in tertiary institutions and prescribing custodial sentences of up to 14 years for lecturers and staff found guilty of sexually exploiting students in exchange for academic favours. The legislation intensifies the legal framework aimed at curbing sexual harassment and abuse in campuses across the country. The bill sets out procedures for investigation, prosecution and victim support, and mandates institutional reporting mechanisms and preventive measures, including training for staff and awareness campaigns for students. Lawmakers said the measure was long overdue, citing mounting evidence that sexual exploitation had become endemic in some institutions.
Human-rights groups and student associations welcomed the passage, calling for swift presidential assent and robust implementation. Universities and polytechnics will be required to set up independent panels to handle complaints and ensure due process while protecting complainants from reprisals.
