Achievers University recently celebrated a significant milestone with the defense of its first PhD student. Dr. Morolake Olagbegi-kassim, from the Department of Criminology and Security Studies, successfully defended her research titled “Victimization and Compensation of Victims in Lagos State – South West.”
In a brief interview after the defense, Dr. Morolake shared insights into her research journey. She revealed that the topic was suggested by Professor Joseph Fayeye, former DVC Administrative, which initially felt overwhelming due to its broad scope. She admitted, “I would have loved to compare the criminal justice system of the United States with that of Nigeria.” However, Professor Fayeye encouraged her to pursue this challenging and expansive topic, believing it would offer rich academic rewards. Although she found the process difficult at times, Dr. Morolake’s determination and refusal to give up propelled her forward.
Her research experience was not without obstacles. She faced significant challenges while gathering information from law enforcement in Lagos. According to Dr. Morolake, “Policemen in Lagos State were not going to open up. It’s like nobody has time for your questioning.” However, by adapting her communication style and meeting them on their level, speaking in dialects and using colloquial language, she was eventually able to break through. She even resorted to speaking Pidgin English and local dialects to build rapport with both the police and community members. Her persistence in connecting with diverse groups, from law enforcement to local leaders and everyday citizens, allowed her to gather critical insights for her study.
Her research journey stands as a testament to perseverance and adaptability in the face of academic challenges, marking a proud moment for both her and Achievers University.
