ICPC presents electronic evidence in trial of former Dean of University of Calabar for sexual misconduct
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has submitted over 70 pieces of electronic evidence against former Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Prof. Cyril Osim Ndifon, in a trial for alleged sexual harassment, molestation, and rape at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The evidence, gathered over a two-month forensic analysis, includes call logs, videos, and messages, revealing the extent of the alleged sexual misconduct involving the professor. Notably, the evidence comes primarily from the testimony of current students and alumni, who have reported experiences of sexual coercion and exploitation by Ndifon.
The ICPC has gathered 15 witnesses, most of whom are students, to testify against Ndifon, with the trial expected to heavily rely on electronic evidence. Multiple students allege that Ndifon engaged in non-consensual sexual acts, with some reporting instances of forcible sex and oral sex. Shockingly, an admission seeker claimed in a written statement to have been coerced into sexual acts with Ndifon in exchange for the promise of admission to the university.
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Besides the allegations of sexual misconduct, ICPC has also accused Ndifon of abusing his position of authority within the university, particularly in relation to the admission process for the Faculty of Law. The commission has detailed instances of unauthorized fees and financial impropriety, suggesting a pattern of exploitation for personal gain in breach of university regulations.
Furthermore, the ICPC has raised concerns about alleged attempts by Ndifon and his lawyer, Sunny Anyanwu, to interfere with the investigation, adding another dimension to the case. In response to these allegations, Ndifon has declared his innocence under oath and has been remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending a bail hearing.
The ICPC has emphasized that all evidence has been provided to all parties and their lawyers in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, ensuring transparency and fairness in the legal process. With these developments, the trial of Prof. Cyril Osim Ndifon serves as a critical examination of the allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of authority within the academic institution.
