UNILAG Withdraws Controversial ‘Don’t Shake Hands with Men’ Advisory

• The University of Lagos has withdrawn its controversial “Don’t Shake Hands with Men” sexual harassment advisory after widespread backlash, saying the messages do not reflect the institution’s values and rejecting all forms of victim-blaming.

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn its controversial sexual harassment advisory following widespread criticism over messages that many Nigerians described as victim-blaming.

The advisory, which was issued by the university’s Student Affairs Division and displayed on a roll-up banner, sparked outrage after photos circulated on social media.

Among its messages to female students were: “Do not dress to kill,” “Your dress is your address,” “Do not shake hands anyhow with any man,” and “Do not mingle carelessly with men.”

The banner also advised women not to stay alone with men in secluded places, avoid accepting frequent gifts or unnecessary favours from men, refrain from watching pornographic content, reject intoxicants, remain vigilant when served drinks, and “learn to say no.”

The guidance immediately drew criticism, with many arguing that it shifted the responsibility for preventing sexual harassment from perpetrators to potential victims.

Reacting to the backlash, UNILAG acknowledged that the advisory originated from its Student Affairs Division but stressed that it did not reflect the institution’s official position or values.

In a statement signed by the Head of the Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the university announced that the advisory had been withdrawn.

According to the statement, suggesting that victims are responsible for preventing sexual harassment is unacceptable and inconsistent with the university’s commitment to protecting students.

UNILAG reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, stressing that the offence is a serious form of misconduct that has no place within the institution.

The university also noted that sexual harassment is not gender-specific and encouraged any student who experiences or witnesses harassment to report the incident through its confidential reporting channels for prompt investigation and support.

UNILAG reiterated its commitment to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive and equitable environment for all members of its community.