UNILAG Lecturer Rape Case: Student Testifies Against Samuel Ojogbo in Lagos Court
The UNILAG lecturer rape case took a significant turn on Wednesday as a 20-year-old student of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) testified before a Lagos State High Court sitting in Ikeja, alleging that a 53-year-old lecturer, Samuel Obinna Ojogbo, raped her in his office on August 22, 2025, at the university’s Akoka campus in Lagos State. The case, prosecuted by the Lagos State Government, is being heard by Justice Oyindamola Ogala.
Allegations Presented in Court
The survivor, appearing as the first prosecution witness, gave a detailed account of the incident while being led in evidence by prosecution counsel A.O. Azeez.
According to her testimony:
- The alleged assault occurred around 12:00 pm on August 22, 2025
- Location: Ojogbo’s office, UNILAG Akoka campus, Lagos State
- The lecturer allegedly lured her to his office after earlier interactions during examinations.
She told the court that the encounter began a day earlier, on August 21, 2025, when the lecturer approached her during an examination and asked her to visit his office.
Events Leading to the Alleged Assault
The student stated that she attempted to meet the lecturer twice after the initial invitation but was unable to find him.
On the following day:
- She had another exam from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
- After the exam, she encountered Ojogbo near her faculty.
- He allegedly signalled her to wait and then led her to his office.
Describing the setting, she said:
“His office is underground. There is no window and no secretary.”
She added that two female students briefly entered the office but were sent away by the lecturer.
Account of the Alleged Incident
The witness told the court that shortly after the other students left:
- The lecturer instructed her to close the door.
- He allegedly pushed her onto a couch.
- She stated that he had touched her inappropriately and had raped her.
She said:
“He started caressing me, touched my breasts, and then forced himself on me. He raped me.”
Post-Incident Developments
Following the alleged assault, the student told the court that the lecturer:
- Promised to supervise her final-year project
- Collected her exam docket
- Took her phone number
She said she left the office in tears and immediately reported the incident to a friend.
Initial Reporting and Institutional Response
The survivor detailed her efforts to report the case within the university system:
- She first informed a lecturer in her department.
- Her uncle, also a lecturer, was contacted.
- The matter was taken to the Head of Department (HOD)
According to her testimony, the HOD questioned the lack of evidence and allegedly advised her to be cautious in future interactions with lecturers.
She stated:
“The HOD said we should just let it go… and next time I should be more careful.”
Escalation to Authorities
Unsatisfied with the response, the student escalated the case:
- Reported to the Servicom Unit at UNILAG
- Underwent medical examination at the university medical centre
- Referred to the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA)
- Directed to Bariga Police Station
- Later examined at WARIF (Women at Risk International Foundation)
- The case was transferred to the Gender Unit of the Police Command.
She also told the court that there were attempts by the defendant’s associates to initiate a settlement.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
The Lagos State Government has filed a two-count charge against Samuel Obinna Ojogbo:
- Rape
- Sexual assault
The defendant has denied the allegations.
As reported by Punch, the trial has now been adjourned until April 27, 2026, for cross-examination of the witness .
What Could Not Be Independently Verified
- The internal response of the UNILAG HOD
- Details of alleged settlement discussions
- Medical findings from examinations
These details remain based on courtroom testimony and have not been independently verified.
Sexual Violence Cases in Nigerian Universities
The UNILAG lecturer rape case highlights ongoing concerns about:
- Abuse of power in academic institutions
- Reporting challenges for survivors
- Institutional accountability
Nigeria has seen increasing advocacy around sexual harassment policies in universities, particularly following publicised cases in recent years.
Organizations such as:
- WARIF
- Lagos DSVA
have played key roles in supporting survivors and pushing for accountability.
Legal and Social Implications
This case raises critical questions:
- How effectively do universities handle sexual misconduct allegations?
- Are internal mechanisms sufficient, or should external reporting be mandatory?
- What protections exist for student survivors?
Legal experts note that courtroom testimony will be crucial in determining the outcome, especially in cases where physical evidence may be limited.
Next Steps in the Trial
- Cross-examination scheduled: April 27, 2026
- Defence expected to challenge testimony.
- The court will evaluate the evidence and the witnesses’ credibility.
The outcome could set an important precedent for handling sexual assault allegations within Nigerian higher institutions.
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