The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a sexual harassment advisory issued by its Student Affairs Division after it sparked widespread criticism from members of the public, who argued that the message appeared to place the responsibility for preventing sexual harassment on women rather than perpetrators.

In a statement released on Monday, the university’s Head of Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, confirmed that the advisory originated from the Student Affairs Division but said it had been withdrawn because it did not reflect the institution’s values, principles or official position.

The controversy followed the circulation of a roll-up banner titled “Counselling Tips for Ladies to Avoid Sexual Harassment/Rape,” which contained a series of behavioural guidelines directed at female students.

Among the recommendations were advice urging women not to “dress to kill,” describing one’s dressing as “your address,” discouraging them from freely shaking hands with men or associating closely with them.

The advisory also cautioned female students against staying alone with men in secluded places, accepting frequent gifts or unnecessary favours from men, consuming intoxicants, watching pornographic materials, and failing to be cautious when offered drinks. It further encouraged women to be assertive and “learn to say no.”

The messages quickly drew backlash on social media and from advocacy groups, with critics arguing that the advisory promoted victim-blaming by focusing on women’s conduct instead of addressing the behaviour of perpetrators of sexual harassment.

Responding to the criticism, UNILAG stated that any suggestion that victims bear responsibility for acts of harassment is inconsistent with the university’s values and wholly unacceptable.

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The institution reiterated that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment and rape, stressing that it neither condones nor supports any form of victim-blaming or victim-shaming.

According to the university, sexual harassment constitutes serious misconduct and has no place within its community.

UNILAG also noted that sexual harassment is not limited to one gender, emphasising that anyone can become a victim.

The university encouraged students who have experienced or witnessed incidents of sexual harassment to make use of its official confidential reporting channels to enable prompt investigation and appropriate support.

Reaffirming its commitment to student welfare, the institution said it remains dedicated to fostering a safe, respectful, inclusive and equitable environment where all members of the university community can study, work and thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination.