- NANS Zone D engages the Alara of Ilara Kingdom over an alleged rape case involving a LASUED lecturer.
- The monarch says the matter has been reported to the police and is currently before a competent court.
- The Alara reaffirms his commitment to student welfare and says due process will be respected.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone D (South-West), has engaged the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Ogunsanwo Olukayode Olufolarin (Telade IV), over an alleged rape case involving one of the monarch’s chiefs, Mr. Afuye Williams, a lecturer at the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Epe Campus.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the engagement, which was organised as a courtesy and fact-finding visit, was led by representatives of the Office of the Director of Culture and Innovation and the Office of the Public Relations Officer of NANS Zone D.
The delegation said the visit was part of its commitment to protecting the interests, safety, dignity, and welfare of Nigerian students, particularly in matters involving allegations of misconduct within educational environments.
During the meeting at the palace, the Alara explained that he was outside the country when the alleged incident occurred and became aware of the matter after his return.
According to the monarch, the matter had been reported to the Nigeria Police Force, investigations had commenced, and the case had subsequently been filed before a competent court of law.
Oba Ogunsanwo reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and protection of students, stressing that the traditional institution would not condone conduct capable of undermining the dignity and safety of students or bringing the palace and educational community into disrepute.
The monarch, who also serves as Chancellor of Lagos State University, emphasized the importance of allowing the judicial process to run its full course, noting that the palace respects the rule of law and the authority of the court.
Addressing concerns raised by students regarding calls for the removal of the accused from his chieftaincy position, the monarch urged all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the appropriate legal processes to determine the matter.
He explained that the palace would consider appropriate action in accordance with the outcome of the judicial process.
The Alara further assured the NANS delegation that if the accused is found guilty by the appropriate court, the law would take its course.
He reiterated that the palace remains committed to justice, fairness, accountability, and the protection of the integrity of the Ilara traditional institution and the educational community.
The monarch also assured the students that he would continue to monitor developments concerning the case while allowing the relevant authorities to carry out their responsibilities.
The NANS delegation, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that students have a safe environment in which to pursue their education.
The Office of the Director of Culture and Innovation also encouraged students who experience issues affecting their safety, dignity, or welfare to speak up and make use of appropriate channels for reporting and seeking assistance.
The delegation emphasized that students should be able to pursue their academic activities without fear, harassment, intimidation, or abuse.
The meeting ended with both parties emphasizing the importance of due process, justice, accountability, and the protection of students’ rights.
NANS Zone D said it would continue to monitor developments surrounding the matter while respecting the ongoing judicial process and the rights of all parties involved.
