UNIZIK vows justice in lecturer-student clash over TikTok video

• NANS condemns attack on lecturer, calls for investigation

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has intervened in a clash between a male lecturer and a female student, pledging to ensure justice.

The university assured the public of updates as its investigation progresses. This came as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) issued a statement yesterday, saying: “While students have the right to self-expression, including on social media, such rights must be exercised responsibly. The reported action of the student is an embarrassment to the student body and does not represent the values of the Nigerian student community.”

NANS urged the management of UNIZIK to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, ensuring due process and fairness. It stressed that, if found guilty, the student should face appropriate sanctions in line with institutional regulations.

An eyewitness account revealed that the incident occurred when the lecturer, Dr Chukwudi Okoye of the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, saw the student, Goddy Mbakwe Precious, a 300-level History and International Relations student, recording a TikTok video in the faculty corridor.

Suspecting he might appear in the video, the lecturer reportedly asked that it be deleted. However, the student resisted, leading to a disagreement during which she allegedly bit him on both arms.

Reacting to a viral video of the incident, the university, through its Acting Head of Information, Public Relations and Protocol, Njelita Louis, promised a transparent and unbiased investigation.

The statement, issued yesterday, noted that the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, had directed a thorough inquiry into the matter. The university reaffirmed its commitment to addressing injustices while ensuring discipline, self-reliance, and excellence within its community.

“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 will ensure appropriate actions are taken based on the investigation’s outcome,” the statement read.

The management reiterated its zero tolerance for indiscipline, misconduct, and unacceptable behaviour, adding that UNIZIK remains a citadel of learning that prioritises high moral and ethical standards.

In a statement issued in Ibadan, the President of the NANS Senate, Babatunde Afeez Akinteye, described the incident as unacceptable, emphasising that violence and misconduct have no place in academic institutions.

He said NANS remains committed to advocating for students’ rights, academic freedom, and a suitable learning environment but stressed the importance of discipline, respect for authority, and adherence to institutional laws.

He reiterated that NANS does not support actions that violate the law or disrespect lecturers, adding that such behaviour tarnishes the image of the academic community. “We stand for responsible student leadership and discipline and will not hesitate to call out actions that contradict these principles,” he said.

Akinteye urged the management of UNIZIK to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, ensuring due process and fairness. He stressed that, if found guilty, the student should face appropriate sanctions in line with institutional regulations.

He also appealed to students nationwide to use appropriate channels to address grievances and avoid misconduct, highlighting the importance of respect for lecturers, university rules, and ethical behaviour as the foundation of student life.
Akinteye expressed confidence that the university would handle the matter fairly, preserving the integrity of the academic environment