UNIZIK reacts to viral video of student allegedly assaulting lecturer, orders full investigation
The management of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in its reaction to a viral video which saw a lecturer being assaulted by a student of the institution, has ordered a “full scale” investigation into the incident.
According to a statement signed by Njelita Louis, the institution’s spokesperson, the university said it is taking the incident seriously. It urged all concerned parties and members of the public to remain calm, adding that appropriate actions and sanctions would be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.
The statement reads, “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, Joseph I. Ikechebelu, has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the matter,” the statement reads in part.
“Nnamdi Azikiwe University remains an institution of learning that upholds high moral and ethical standards. There is no place for indiscipline, misconduct, or any form of unacceptable behaviour within our community.”
It would be recalled that a female student, Precious Mbakwe, had, on Tuesday, allegedly assaulted a lecturer, Chukwudu Okoye, after he interrupted her while she was recording a video in the university hallway.
According to a video circulating on social media, Ms Mbakwe, a third-year History and International Studies student was recording a video when Mr Okoye, a lecturer at the Department of Theatre Arts, walked past in the video, tapping her and saying, “excuse me”.
However, the student reacted, gave him a look of disdain and told someone off her video angrily. “Can you imagine, he just hit me,” the student said.
Other viral videos show Ms Mbakwe confronting Mr Okoye, questioning his actions. The scenario escalated, drawing the attention of students and officials and turned chaotic.
The video also showed the student fighting ‘hard’ and tearing the right side of the lecturer’s brown native clothes.
She was also seen holding onto the lecturer, who appeared to be in his 50s with slightly grey hairs.
The videos, however, show that Mr Okoye did not fight back even as the student dragged him by his shirt.
Photos online also reveal deep bite marks on his arms, and another image shows Mr Okoye receiving medical treatment, reportedly at the school clinic.
Source: Premium Times
