Court Delivers Five-Year Jail Term After Detailed Trial
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has hailed the conviction of former UNICAL Law Dean, Prof. Cyril Ndifon. The Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced him to five years’ imprisonment for sexually harassing a female student. The judgment, delivered by Justice James Omotosho, found Ndifon guilty on two of four charges.
The court held that Ndifon induced the student, identified as Miss TKJ, to send nude photographs. It also ruled that he corruptly used his position to obtain sexual benefits. These offences established a clear abuse of office.
Victim’s Testimony Was Central to the Conviction
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja, ICPC spokesperson John Odey stressed the importance of the survivor’s role. He said the verdict was possible because the victim provided consistent and credible testimony throughout the trial.
According to him, “Beyond the conviction, the most important outcome of this case is the message of hope and empowerment it sends to every person who has suffered in silence from sexual harassment and abuse of power.”
Odey also quoted the court’s praise for the victim’s bravery. As he recalled, the presiding judge described her as a “shining example for all those who are being sexually harassed to come out to report their oppressors.”
He added that the court publicly commended her courage due to her strength during cross-examination.
ICPC Says the Era of Impunity Is Ending
Odey declared that the conviction marks a major shift in how institutions handle sexual misconduct. He said it “signalled the end of the era of impunity” in universities and other spaces where officials exploit their positions.
He stated, “The conviction of Professor Cyril Ndifon is a landmark victory for justice. It is a clear warning to predators in our schools, offices and institutions that a position of authority is not a shield from the law. The era of impunity is ending. I want to assure you that this Commission will not rest.”
He added that the ICPC will take this precedent into every institutional environment. “We will take this precedent into every university common room and every corporate boardroom. To those who abuse their power: know that your authority will not shield you. The courage of one victim, the diligence of our investigators, and the force of law have shown that your time is up. This judgment is not the end of a case; it is the beginning of a crusade,” he said.
Digital Evidence Strengthened the Case
Odey explained that the commission built the case using forensic digital evidence obtained with the defendant’s consent. He said the WhatsApp messages recovered from Ndifon’s device supported the victim’s narrative. He added that the court’s acceptance of those materials validated the commission’s investigative approach.
He also acknowledged the support of the Nigerian Bar Association, FIDA and civil society partners who worked with investigators during the case.
Commission Encourages More Survivors to Speak Up
Finally, he urged other survivors to report sexual harassment, extortion or abuse of office. He assured the public that the ICPC has both the systems and the legal backing to protect identities and prosecute offenders.