The University of Port Harcourt has made a U-turn from its earlier stance of absolving itself and staff from any involvement in the allegation of sexual harassment of a female student caught on camera.

A disturbing viral video 51 seconds circulating on social media showing a lecturer allegedly from the University of Port Harcourt harassing an unidentified female student.

Following the surfacing of the video, the university in a statement signed by its Head of Information, Publications and Public Relations, Dr. Sam Kpenu, on Monday stated that the university after conducting a preliminary investigation into the matter, confirmed that the alleged incident did not happen within the premises of the University of Port Harcourt, neither was any of the university staff involved in the incident.

Kpenu said, “It has come to our attention that false allegations have been circulating regarding a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt (UniPort) being involved in a molestation incident with a student in his office.

“We wish to categorically state that these allegations are entirely untrue and baseless.

“First and foremost, there has been no reported incident of such nature involving any faculty member at UniPort.

“Furthermore, after conducting a thorough investigation into the matter, it has been confirmed that the alleged incident did not take place within the premises of UniPort or involve any of its staff members,” he added.

However, the university management after convening an emergency meeting on Tuesday launched a special investigative panel mandated with the task of investigating the incident and to submit its findings within five days.

According to a statement issued by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, the swift establishment of the investigative committee reflects University’s dedication to addressing allegations of misconduct with utmost seriousness and urgency.

Prof. Georgewill emphasised the institution’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and ensuring the welfare and safety of its students. The

The investigative committee includes the following lecturers, Professor Jonah S Aprioku (Chairman), Professor Emeka Ehirim (Member), Professor Agatha Ozah (Member), Professor Edwinah Amah (Member) and Dr Edward Bristol Alagberiya (Member).

The Vice Chancellor added that the Registrar of the University will appoint a secretary to facilitate the committee’s proceedings. (Daily Independent)

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