Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye
Minister of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye has apologised to all parties offended by her comments in a leaked audio conversation credited to her on an allege sexual harassment controversy in the University of Calabar, (UNICAL).
The minister’s apology came after Civil Society Organisations demanded at the weekend, that she apologize for her comments which they described as having grave “implications for the interest and protection of vulnerable women and children”.
In a statement made public by the Director of Press in the ministry, Olujimi Oyetomi, the minister said she stands for Nigerian women and for justice and is commitment to safeguarding and advancing the rights and welfare of Nigerian women, including the pursuit of justice when these rights are violated.
She said “I wish to express my sincere apologies to those who were offended by my comments and actions regarding the sexual harassment scandal at the University of Calabar.
“This is extremely regrettable as my intentions were sincere and aligned with my consistent advocacy for the welfare of Nigerian women and the pursuit of justice. I stand for all Nigerian women and I stand for justice; and it is my hope that we can work together to actualize the dream of a country where women’s rights are respected and protected, and where our daughters feel safe in institutions of learning.”
Parts of the statement reads; “The Honourable Minister wishes to emphasize her unwavering dedication to upholding due diligence and the rule of law, recognizing that justice and fairness are the fundamental principles upon which equitable societies are built.
“This declaration comes in response to recent public discussions and reactions by concerned Nigerians regarding the unfolding situation at the University of Calabar, involving the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof Cyril Ndifon, and sexual harassment allegations levelled against him.
It also notes that the minister was unequivocal in her condemnation of sexual harassment and related offences and had expressed deep concern over the escalating cases of sexual harassment across campuses and emphasized the need for decisive action, assuring that her ministry would actively seek justice for those affected.
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