By from Adeboye Ado

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A distinguished expert in Industrial Sociology and Gender Relations at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Prof. Emmanuel Fayankinnu has emphasized the urgent need for reforms to safeguard women in leadership roles from a subtle yet harmful form of sexual harassment perpetrated by male subordinates in the workplace.

 Fayankinnu made this appeal during the 38th inaugural lecture of the university.

The lecture, titled “Still Powerless Before Male Subordinates: Contra-Power Sexual Harassment of Women Leaders in the Workplace,” highlighted the lesser-known yet pervasive issue of Contra-Power Sexual Harassment (CPSH), a variant of sexual harassment targeting women in leadership positions.

He pointed out that women leaders are particularly vulnerable to CPSH, which often manifests as verbal and symbolic harassment rather than physical abuse, making it harder to report and prove.

According to him, “Women leaders are an endangered group who endure specific forms of CPSH in their professional roles, and these forms are often covert, involving suggestive comments and subtle gestures that are difficult to detect and document.”

Professor Fayankinnu stressed that male subordinates exploit cultural and organisational gaps to carry out these acts, noting, “The covert nature of these harassments, including suggestive remarks, erotic symbols, and innuendos makes it challenging for victims to gather evidence.

Even when complaints are lodged, male-dominated committees often fail to deliver justice.”

Drawing from his research, the professor shared disturbing real-life examples of harassment, recounting how male subordinates would make inappropriate remarks such as, “Your clothes fit you well; they highlight your physique,” or boast about their sexual prowess near female leaders’ offices, saying, “I am a horse, and when I handle any woman, no matter her position, she will bow to my abilities.”

“These remarks and actions are far from innocent; they are calculated efforts to intimidate and sexualise women leaders, reinforcing male dominance even in the face of formal authority,” he explained.

Professor Fayankinnu called for immediate policy reforms, urging institutions to implement comprehensive sexual harassment policies that clearly define CPSH and enforce strict penalties for offenders.

“Policy must be inclusive of all genders and must be enforced decisively when violations occur,” he emphasized.

He also advocated for balanced gender representation on harassment investigation committees, stressing that, “It’s not just about having equal numbers; it’s about ensuring parity in rank and influence. A fair committee should reflect gender equality both in representation and authority.”

The professor further highlighted the need for increased awareness, trauma-informed support for survivors, and the involvement of NGOs and policymakers in driving workplace reforms.

He also critiqued cultural norms that indirectly support male dominance and sexual aggression, calling for a reassessment of Yoruba cultural practices that encourage men to boast about their sexuality and objectify women.

“These cultural norms must be re-examined, and men must actively participate in this conversation,” he stated.

While advocating for both policy and cultural reforms, Professor Fayankinnu also offered practical advice to women leaders, urging them to “maintain formal relationships with male subordinates” and be mindful of their workplace attire, advising against “provocative dressing that could invite inappropriate comments.”

He concluded by calling for collective action, stressing that, “Combating CPSH is not the sole responsibility of women; it requires the cooperation of institutions, cultural leaders, and society at large.”

The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Olugbenga Ige, who introduced the Inaugural Lecturer, commended Professor Fayankinnu as a “stupendous scholar” and acknowledged his unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations of scholars and leaders.

He added, “On behalf of the university, we express our deep appreciation to Professor Emmanuel Abiodun Fayankinnu for his tireless dedication to academic excellence, his invaluable contributions to knowledge, and his exemplary service to both the university and the global academic community.”