The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has said the courage of the victim in the case against a former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Prof. Cyril Ndifon, was central to securing his conviction for sexual offences.
Ndifon was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for sexually harassing his female student.
In the judgment delivered by Justice James Omotosho, Ndifon was found guilty on two out of the four charges preferred against him by the ICPC.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the commission’s spokesperson, John Odey, said the verdict, which found Ndifon guilty of inducing a student, identified as Miss TKJ, to send nude photographs, and of corruptly using his office to obtain sexual benefits, was made possible largely because the victim gave consistent and credible testimony throughout the trial.
He added that the judgment demonstrated that survivors who come forward can receive justice, noting that the court publicly commended the victim’s bravery.
“Beyond the conviction, the most important outcome of this case is the message of hope and empowerment it sends to every person who has suffered in silence from sexual harassment and abuse of power.
“We must commend the profound courage of Miss TKJ. In the words of the presiding judge, she is a ‘shining example for all those who are being sexually harassed to come out to report their oppressors.’ Her bravery has forged a path for others to seek justice,” he said.
Odey said the conviction signalled “the end of the era of impunity” in universities and other institutions where officials exploit their positions to harass or intimidate students.
He added that the commission would continue to pursue cases involving abuse of office, especially those that prey on vulnerable individuals.
“The conviction of Professor Cyril Ndifon is a landmark victory for justice. It is a clear warning to predators in our schools, offices and institutions that a position of authority is not a shield from the law. The era of impunity is ending. I want to assure you that this Commission will not rest.
“We will take this precedent into every university common room and every corporate boardroom. To those who abuse their power: know that your authority will not shield you.
“The courage of one victim, the diligence of our investigators, and the force of law have shown that your time is up. This judgment is not the end of a case; it is the beginning of a crusade,” he said.
Odey encouraged other survivors of sexual harassment, extortion or abuse of office to come forward, assuring them that the commission has the systems and legal backing to protect their identities and prosecute offenders.
The ICPC spokesperson explained that the case was built on forensic digital evidence obtained from the defendant with his consent and supported by WhatsApp messages that corroborated the victim’s account.
He said the court’s acceptance of the evidence affirmed the commission’s investigative methods.
Odey also acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Bar Association, the International Federation of Women Lawyers and civil society organisations during the investigation and prosecution.
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