By: Manoah Kikekon
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| UNILAG |
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has ignited a fierce national debate following the release of a new anti-rape and personal safety advisory targeted exclusively at female students. The advisory, displayed on roll-up banners across campus by the university's Student Affairs Division, lists precautionary measures aimed at mitigating sexual harassment, but critics argue it places the burden of preventing assault squarely on the victims.
Among the various tips displayed on the banner, one particular directive has drawn widespread public scrutiny and mockery on social media: “Do not shake hands anyhow with any man.”
The advisory outlines a series of behavioral restrictions for female undergraduates. Additional points on the banner instruct students: “Do not dress to kill.” “Do not mingle carelessly with men.” “Do not stay alone with a man in a hidden place.” “Do not seek unnecessary favour from men.” “Do not join to watch pornographic film/pictures.” “Do not accept intoxicants and be vigilant when you are served with drinks.” “Do not give in to pressure – be assertive. Learn to say no. One-time sex can cause you pregnancy; if you don’t want it, don’t try it.”
According to university authorities, these counseling tips were designed to educate female students on personal safety and reduce their risk of experiencing sexual assault while on campus.
The release of the advisory comes against the backdrop of historical and ongoing security concerns within the institution. Tertiary institutions across Nigeria have grappled with safety issues, and UNILAG has seen its share of high-profile legal battles concerning sexual misconduct.
In April, legal proceedings captured national headlines when a 20-year-old UNILAG undergraduate testified before an Ikeja High Court, alleging she was raped by a lecturer, Dr. Samuel Ojogbo, in his underground office in August 2025. This followed earlier institutional scandals, including a 2019 incident where five students were arraigned by the Lagos State Government for the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old student.
While the university maintains that the guidelines are intended purely as preventative counseling, gender advocates, civil society groups, and students have heavily criticized the messaging. Many argue that the rules rely heavily on tropes of victim-blaming, suggesting that sexual assault is a consequence of how women dress, walk, or shake hands, rather than the actions of perpetrators.
Critics point out that advising women to avoid handshakes, changing their attire, or isolating themselves does nothing to address the root causes of sexual violence or hold potential offenders accountable.