The House of Representatives has approved the passage of a bill aiming to prevent, prohibit, and redress cases of sexual harassment in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. The legislation, spearheaded by House spokesperson Akin Rotimi, seeks to address sexual misconduct and ensure a secure environment for students.
Key provisions of the bill stipulate that offenders could face up to 14 years in prison for acts of sexual harassment, including unwanted physical contact, verbal advances, sharing explicit material, or making derogatory comments based on physical appearance. Additionally, it holds educational administrators accountable, proposing penalties of five years in prison or a fine of N5 million for those failing to address complaints properly.
According to Rotimi, the bill aims to uphold ethical standards and protect the student-educator relationship of trust and respect.
**Proposal for a Federal Medical Centre in Lagos**
In another development, the House also progressed a bill seeking to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Orile, Lagos. Sponsored by Representative Lanre Okunlola, this proposed facility is intended to alleviate overcrowding in existing hospitals and provide quality healthcare to Lagos’ growing population. Okunlola emphasized the need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure, citing Lagos’ population growth and rising cases of complex medical issues.
Both bills will require further readings before proceeding to the Senate for concurrence.
