The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has launched a full-scale investigation into an incident where a student allegedly assaulted a lecturer, as seen in viral social media videos.
In an official statement signed by the university’s spokesperson, Njelita Louis, the institution emphasised that it is addressing the matter seriously and urged all parties, including the public, to remain calm.
The university assured that appropriate measures and sanctions would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
The statement further highlighted that the university upholds its core values of discipline, self-reliance, and excellence, and that all actions will be guided by principles of fair hearing, equity, and justice.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Joseph I. Ikechebelu has ordered a thorough, transparent, and impartial inquiry into the incident.
Nnamdi Azikiwe University reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high moral and ethical standards, stating that indiscipline, misconduct, or any form of unacceptable behavior will not be tolerated within its academic community.
According to reports, Chukwudu Okoye, a lecturer at the Department of Theatre Arts, allegedly assaulted Precious Mbakwe, a third-year History and International Studies student, when he interrupted her while she was filming a video in the campus hallway.
Videos on social media that went viral claim that Mr. Okoye tapped the student while requesting her pardon. Ms. Mbakwe reacted violently, seemed clearly upset, and claimed he had hit her.
Additional footage shows the situation escalating as the student confronted the lecturer, questioning his actions. The altercation quickly drew the attention of students and officials, leading to a chaotic scene.
In another clip, Ms. Mbakwe was seen aggressively grabbing the lecturer’s shirt, tearing the right side of his brown native outfit. Despite being held onto and dragged by the student, Mr. Okoye, who appears to be in his 50s with greying hair, did not retaliate.
Photos circulating online display deep bite marks on Mr. Okoye’s arm, and another image shows him receiving medical treatment, reportedly at the university’s clinic.
NANS Condemns Student’s Actions
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the alleged assault of a lecturer by a student at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) over a TikTok recording.
In a recent statement released in Ibadan, NANS Senate President Babatunde Akinteye reaffirmed the association’s dedication to protecting students’ rights while stressing the need for discipline, respect for authority, and adherence to university regulations.
Describing the student’s actions as unacceptable, Akinteye emphasised that universities should be centers of learning founded on mutual respect. While recognising students’ rights to self-expression, including the use of social media, he urged them to exercise these freedoms responsibly and with decorum.
He further stated that NANS would not support any student involved in unlawful behavior, disrespect towards lecturers, or actions that damage the reputation of the academic community.
Akinteye also underscored the importance of maintaining academic institutions as environments of respect, learning, and professionalism.
