The governing council of Lagos State University (LASU) has dismissed two academic staff members over allegations of misconduct, including inhumane treatment of students, sexual harassment, and financial impropriety.
The dismissals were approved during the council’s 143rd statutory meeting held on July 3, 2025, following the recommendations of a joint council-senate disciplinary committee.
The staff members are Olatunji Tajudeen Fasasi Abanikannada (professor) and Khadeejah Olufunke Kareem-Ibraheem (PhD).
Abanikannada, the dean of the school of agriculture, Epe Campus, faced multiple allegations.
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He was accused of subjecting 400-level agriculture students to inhumane treatment by keeping them on the farm for extended hours (6:30 am to 10 pm) without breaks, food, or water, even during heavy rainfall.
Other allegations against Abanikannada include sexual harassment of female students, emotionally and physically traumatising staff and students with threats and derogatory language, and unauthorised collection of money from staff and students.
Kareem-Ibraheem, a lecturer and coordinator in the department of animal sciences at the Epe Campus, was dismissed for dereliction of duty.
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She was found to have failed to adhere to the university’s guidelines for the farm practical year (FPY), leading to students being exposed to hard labour.
Additionally, Kareem-Ibraheem was dismissed for failing to remit N10.6 million from the sale of farm produce to the university coffers.
The funds were reportedly kept in her bank account, violating university guidelines.
Emmanuel A. Fanu, registrar and secretary to the council, stated that these acts are considered “serious misconduct” and contravene the university’s conditions of service for senior staff (2017, as amended).
Both dismissals became effective on July 3, 2025.
