The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, has ordered a full-scale investigation into an altercation between a lecturer and a female student, which has sparked controversy both on campus and on social media.
According to a statement by the Acting Head of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol, Njelita Louis, the university management is committed to maintaining discipline and decorum while ensuring that appropriate sanctions are imposed on any party found culpable.
The university confirmed that the incident involved Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, and Goddy Mbakwe Precious, a third-year student in the Department of History and International Studies.
A viral video that surfaced on Tuesday showed Precious dancing in front of her phone in a hallway when Dr. Okoye passed by. Reports indicate that the lecturer tapped the student on the shoulder, asking her to move aside. However, the situation quickly escalated when Okoye allegedly overheard the student making derogatory remarks about him and decided to confront her.
According to Okoye’s statement, he returned to confirm if she was his student and requested her to delete the video where he appeared. This reportedly led to a struggle, during which the student allegedly bit the lecturer multiple times, tore his clothes, and scratched his face.
Precious, however, presented a different account. She claimed that the lecturer initially pushed her aside while she was recording, and later attempted to snatch her phone without explanation. She also alleged that during the scuffle, Okoye grabbed her inappropriately, prompting her to bite him in an attempt to free herself.
The confrontation reportedly escalated when students from the Theatre Arts department arrived, leading to security personnel intervening and taking Precious away in their van.
The university has assured the public that a transparent and unbiased investigation will be conducted.
“In line with our core values of discipline, self-reliance, and excellence, and in adherence to the principles of fair hearing, equity, and justice, the Acting Vice-Chancellor has ordered a full-scale investigation into the matter,” the university’s statement read.
