UNIZIK launches probe into female student, lecturer’s physical altercation

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, has ordered an investigation into an incident involving a female student and a lecturer that escalated into a physical altercation.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday at the Faculty of Arts, saw a student, identified as Goddy Mbakwe Precious, allegedly bite and physically confront Dr Chukwudi Michael, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies.

The altercation reportedly began when Dr. Michael interrupted the student, who was recording a video. This led to a heated argument that eventually turned physical.

Dr. Michael later returned to confront the student after overhearing her insults and attempted to seize her phone, resulting in a struggle where the student bit him and tore his clothes.

In response to the incident, the university’s Acting Head of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol, Njelita Louis, in a statement on Wednesday, stressed the institution’s commitment to discipline and transparency.

He stated that the Acting Vice-Chancellor had ordered a full investigation into the matter, ensuring that appropriate actions and sanctions would be taken based on its outcome.

The statement read, “The Management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has been made aware of a disturbing incident involving Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies and Goddy Mbakwe Precious a 3rd year student in the department of History and International Studies.

“The incident, which has gained significant attention on social media, is being taken very seriously by the university authorities.

“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, Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the matter.

“We urge all concerned parties and members of the public to remain calm as we diligently pursue the truth.

“The university is committed to upholding discipline and decorum, and we will ensure that appropriate actions and sanctions are taken based on the outcome of the investigation.”

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He also reiterated the university’s high moral standards and zero tolerance for indiscipline.

In a statement shared on social media, Dr. Michael recounted his version of events, stating that the student had been filming at a campus building’s entrance and, upon being tapped to make way, turned and insulted him. After confronting her and attempting to retrieve the phone, he was bitten multiple times, leading to further physical altercations.

The university assured the public that further updates would be provided as the investigation unfolded.