Shockwaves at ATBU: Senior Lecturer Dismissed Over Sexual Harassment Allegations
The academic atmosphere at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, has been shaken by a bold and defining move by the university’s Governing Council. In a strong stance against sexual misconduct, ATBU has dismissed Dr. Usman Aliyu, a senior lecturer, following credible allegations of sexual harassment involving a married postgraduate student, Mrs. Kamila Aliyu.
This decision was officially announced in the latest edition of the ATBU Herald (Vol. 39 No. 5, April 22), which reported on the outcomes of the university’s 96th regular council meeting held on April 11, 2025. The dismissal was based on the findings of the Senior Staff Disciplinary Committee, which confirmed that Dr. Aliyu was guilty of serious misconduct after a comprehensive investigation.
According to the dismissal letter now made public, Dr. Aliyu was terminated for an “indecent relationship involving a student of the university, Mrs. Kamila Rufai Aliyu of the Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Engineering Technology.” The Governing Council’s decision reflects the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and abuse of power.
The case originated from a formal petition filed by Mrs. Kamila Aliyu last year. In her complaint, she alleged that Dr. Aliyu sexually harassed her and threatened her academic standing when she resisted his advances. Despite Dr. Aliyu’s counter-response, which included filing a defamation suit against the student, the department, and the university, ATBU pushed forward with its internal review—signaling its resolve to get to the truth and uphold its values.
The dismissal was carried out in line with the university’s established protocols, particularly under “Chapter 3, Item F, I (o) of the Senior Staff Conditions of Service,” as stated by Alhaji Abdullahi Suleiman, the Senior Deputy Registrar for Senior Staff Establishment. Alongside the dismissal, Dr. Aliyu was instructed to return all university property and officially sever ties with the institution.
This landmark action sends a powerful message that misconduct—especially of such a grave nature—will not be tolerated. It reinforces ATBU’s dedication to fostering a safe, respectful, and ethical learning environment for all students.
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Salahdeen HI is a seasoned e-learning, education, and ICT professional with years of experience driving innovation in the education sector. He is the founder of Edunaija, one of Nigeria’s leading education blogs, where he shares insights, resources, and updates to support students and educators alike. Beyond his work in education technology, Salahdeen is also a passionate content creator and blogger, using digital platforms to inform, empower, and inspire. His professional journey includes notable roles such as working in the Lagos State Governor’s Office, focusing on Systems Support and Computer Education across Education Districts. Through Edunaija and his digital content, Salahdeen is committed to leveraging technology to transform education in Nigeria.