The sexual harassment trial of suspended University of Calabar law dean Cyril Ndifon reached a critical stage today as the defense closed its case before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Ndifon and his co-defendant Sunny Anyanwu presented two witnesses to counter charges brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).
Key developments in the high-profile case:
- Ndifon testified as first defense witness (DW-1)
- Forensic analyst CSP Babagana Mingali (DW-2) provided technical evidence
- Court adjourned until July 2 for final written addresses
- Defense follows March 2024 dismissal of no-case submission
The ICPC’s amended four-count charge alleges Ndifon demanded explicit photos from a female diploma student via WhatsApp while serving as faculty dean, with Anyanwu accused of witness intimidation during proceedings. Both maintain their innocence.
Justice Omotosho had previously ruled the prosecution established a prima facie case, compelling the defendants to enter their defense. The July hearing will determine whether Nigeria’s academic sector sees its first major sexual misconduct conviction under strengthened anti-harassment laws.
