Emulating VC Florence Banku Obi: Lessons for All VCs in Resilience, Academic Justice, and Courage -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

Amid the UNICAL Vice Chancellor’s Fortitude, Florence Banku Obi, the Dean’s Malevolence, and the Minister’s Sickening Response to Victimized Female Students: The Need for Her Public Apology.

In the realm of higher education across Nigeria, tales of sexual harassment, assault, and academic misconduct have, unfortunately, been far from uncommon. These stories often unfold behind closed doors, shrouded in silence, and perpetuated by the fear of speaking out. It is a predicament that persists, challenging the sanctity of learning institutions and the security of students.

Amid this disconcerting landscape, the University of Calabar (UNICAL) emerged as the stage for a harrowing narrative that would not only unravel the deep-seated issues within academia but also spotlight the in recent times the extraordinary courage of one woman—Vice Chancellor Florence Banku Obi. As this saga unfolded, it revealed the stark contrast between an academic leader’s resilience in protecting students and championing academic justice and the malevolence that could lurk within the corridors of power.

Through the turbulent seas of higher education, students seeking knowledge and enlightenment at times found themselves ensnared in a web of sexual harassment, assault, and academic-related intimidations. It is a story that underscores the immense responsibilities of academic leaders, the imperative need for accountability, and the indomitable spirit of those determined to right the wrongs that threaten the very foundations of education.

We delve into the heart-wrenching accounts of brave students who dared to confront their tormentors, the unwavering resilience of Vice Chancellor Florence Banku Obi in the pursuit of justice, and the dismaying response of a government minister entrusted with protecting the welfare of women and girls. It is a tale that transcends boundaries, serving as both a stark warning and a beacon of hope—an invitation to learn from the past and shape a brighter future for all students, faculty, and administrators who walk the hallowed halls of academia.

VC Florence Banku Obi has fully displayed unparalleled courage in addressing allegations of misconduct within her institution. This steadfast commitment to addressing wrongdoing, regardless of its source, serves as a cornerstone of effective leadership in African higher education. To emulate her, all VCs must summon the courage to confront misconduct head-on, understanding that silence only perpetuates a toxic environment.

Above all, she prioritizes the welfare of students and faculty. Every Vice Chancellor in Africa must view the safety and well-being of their academic community as their paramount responsibility. In doing so, they can create an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and academic excellence.

VC Florence Banku Obi’s dedication to academic justice is unwavering. She understands that the credibility and integrity of African higher education institutions hinge upon a commitment to fairness, transparency, and accountability in all matters. Emulating her requires creating systems that ensure academic justice prevails, free from favoritism or bias.

Her leadership exemplifies the highest ethical standards. VCs in Africa must strive to set strong ethical examples for their entire academic communities. Upholding integrity and ethics in decision-making and actions is fundamental to preserving the honor of higher education institutions.

VC Florence Banku Obi has demonstrated empathy and support for survivors of misconduct while ensuring that faculty members involved face appropriate disciplinary measures. To follow her lead, VCs must actively work to dismantle the barriers that survivors face in seeking justice. Simultaneously, they should enforce rigorous discipline when misconduct is confirmed. This ensures a safe and accountable academic environment.

VCs must summon the courage to confront misconduct and injustice within their institutions, even when it implicates influential individuals. Courageous leadership is necessary to effect meaningful change.

Prioritizing the welfare of both students and faculty is non-negotiable. VCs must work tirelessly to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all members of the academic community.

Leading by example, VCs should uphold the highest ethical standards in their roles. Ethical leadership sets the tone for an institution’s culture and values.

VC Florence Banku Obi’s response to the challenges at UNICAL provides a potent model for Vice Chancellors and stakeholders in African higher education. Her resilience, dedication to student and faculty welfare, commitment to academic justice, ethical leadership, and support for survivors and faculty discipline offer crucial lessons. The academic community, faculty, students, and policymakers must internalize these lessons and take robust actions to address misconduct within African higher education. Only through collective effort can we create safer, more equitable, and academically just environments for all members of the academic community in Africa, thereby safeguarding the integrity and future of higher education on the continent.

Within this narrative, we examine the Minister of Women’s Affairs’ response—an individual vested with the solemn responsibility of safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls across the nation. In the face of harrowing accounts and the pursuit of justice, the minister’s response was, regrettably, marked by a tone of indifference and skepticism, casting a shadow over the very ideals her office represents.

In the following sections, let us suggest an alternative path, one that aligns more closely with the principles of empathy, accountability, and the unwavering support required to foster a safer and more equitable educational environment.

In the aftermath of the release of distressing audio recordings, the minister resorted to defensive tactics, employing mental methods to apparently scare the students and Vice Chancellor Florence Banku Obi. These tactics included implied strategies, attempts to downplay the gravity of the situation, and references to influential figures such as the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu. The minister insinuated that she had contacted the First Lady’s office regarding her involvement in the issues and panel at the university. However, rather than suppressing the issue, these actions only served to exacerbate it, thrusting it into the media spotlight.

Wouldn’t it be nice to hear these words from the minister: ‘I want to take a moment to address the recent developments and the unintended consequences of my private conversations that were made public. I deeply regret the unwanted attention and distress that my words have caused, not only to the Nigerian community but also to the brave students, particularly women and girls, who have been affected by the issues we’re discussing today.

The past few days have been humbling and enlightening. I must apologize for the language and tone used in the audio. Those words fell short of the values I hold dear, and they have undoubtedly shaken the trust of not just the victims but also the entire nation.

To Vice Chancellor Florence Banku Obi, who has shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, I extend my sincere apologies. Your dedication to protecting students and championing academic justice serves as a model for all leaders in higher education. I deeply regret any doubts or concerns my words may have caused in the academic community.

To the courageous students who have come forward with their painful experiences, I offer my heartfelt apologies. Your voices matter, and your bravery in shedding light on these issues is commendable. It is my hope that you receive the support and justice you deserve.

To all Nigerians, especially women and girls, I apologize for my insensitive remarks. My role as Minister of Women Affairs carries the responsibility of upholding the rights and well-being of all citizens, and my recent words did not reflect that commitment.

While my private conversations were never intended to be harmful, I acknowledge that the impact of my words has caused concern and distress. I’m truly sorry for any harm caused and any disruption this has caused to important discussions on these critical issues.

Moving forward, I am committed to better educating myself about these pressing concerns, being more empathetic in my responses, and working tirelessly to support and advocate for the welfare of all citizens, with a particular focus on women and girls.

Thank you for holding me accountable, and I appreciate your understanding as I learn from this experience and work towards positive change. I want to acknowledge that this type of public apology is just the beginning of the consequences I may face.

While it may not prevent other potential outcomes, whether within the presidential government of Bola Tinubu, civil or criminal actions from the university community, or scrutiny from other concerned groups, it is my ministerial humble homage to the public. It signifies my recognition of the abuse of position and power, and I am committed to making amends. I am fully aware that true change requires more than words; it necessitates meaningful actions and a dedication to upholding the trust placed in me. I am determined to work diligently to regain that trust and contribute positively to the welfare of all Nigerians’. Good luck, Madam Minister.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist as well as a forensic, clinical, and legal psychologist.