Nigerian Students Rally for Presidential Assent on Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill

The Gender Mobile Initiative (GMI) and students from tertiary institutions across Nigeria have launched a nationwide campaign, “Donate a Pen to Mr President”, across more than 50 campuses. The campaign aims to draw the attention of President Bola Tinubu to the anti-sexual harassment bill awaiting his assent.

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The organisers believe that the shortage of pens at the President’s table is the most immediate obstacle. The bill in question seeks to promote and protect ethical standards in tertiary institutions, proposing up to 14 years jail term for offenders.

Ms Omowunmi Ogunrotimi, the Lead Director of GMI, announced that the week-long campaign will unfold across more than 50 campuses. Students and the general public are encouraged to contribute red pens at designated collection points. The pens collected throughout the week will be ceremoniously transmitted to the Office of the Nigerian President on December 15th.

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The Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill, initially introduced in 2016, faced considerable resistance but was later reintroduced due to the relentless advocacy efforts of various organisations. The “Donate a Pen to Mr President” campaign signifies not only a tangible show of support for the bill but also serves as a visual representation of the collective determination to eradicate sexual harassment within the country’s higher education institutions.

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This initiative reflects the resilience of Nigerian students and the wider community in their pursuit of a safer learning environment, free from the shadows of sexual harassment. As pens accumulate, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation united against this pervasive issue.