Sexual Assault: Suspended UNICAL Dean Confesses

The suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Calabar, Cyril Ndifon, has defended himself against allegations of sexual harassment by stating that he had a consensual relationship with the diploma graduate identified as TKJ, who accused him.

Ndifon, who is currently facing trial on amended counts of alleged sexual harassment and gratification, argued that the evidence presented suggested a consensual relationship between them.

In a no-case submission filed by his lawyer, Joe Agi (SAN), Ndifon urged the court to discharge and acquit him, emphasizing the nature of the relationship revealed in their communications. He pointed out that the text messages exchanged between them expressed love, affection, and concern for each other’s safety, refuting claims of fear or coercion.

“What are the elements of the offence: causing fear, threat, fear for safety? None of the above elements were contained in count 1,” Ndifon stated. “The chats show clearly that both Defendant and TKJ have a consensual relationship where they expressed their love, affection, and worries for each other’s safety, particularly that of the Defendant.”

Furthermore, Ndifon criticized the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for violating his fundamental human rights by seizing his phones without a court order. He argued that the commission breached his right to privacy by searching through his phone without proper legal authorization.

Ndifon also challenged the jurisdiction of the court in handling the case, highlighting discrepancies in the charges brought against him and questioning the legality of the ICPC’s actions. He contended that the charges brought against him were outside the court’s jurisdiction, citing relevant provisions of the law.

The adoption of written addresses on the no-case submission is scheduled for February 27, 2024, as Ndifon continues to defend himself against the allegations.