The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into a shocking altercation in which a student allegedly bit and physically confronted her lecturer.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday at the Faculty of Arts, involved a female student and a lecturer, identified as Dr. Chukwudi Michael.
The conflict allegedly started when the lecturer interrupted a video recording the student was making, leading to a heated argument that escalated into a physical fight.
This is contained in a statement released on Tuesday, the Acting Head of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol, Njelita Louis, emphasised the university’s commitment to discipline and decorum.
He assured that appropriate actions and sanctions would be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.
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.
According to Njelita, “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.”
He said that the 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.
“Further updates will be provided as necessary,” Njelita added.
In a video circulating on social media, the student was seen dancing at the entrance of a campus building while being filmed. As the lecturer, Michael, attempted to pass by, he tapped her on the shoulder to make way for himself.
The video showed that while Michael continued into the building, the student turned with a frown and said, “Imagine! Why would he touch me like that?”
However, the situation escalated into a physical confrontation when Michael overheard the student insulting him and returned to confront her.
Upon returning, he noticed she was recording a video. Not wanting to be captured, he reached for the student’s phone, but she aggressively grabbed his clothes. During the struggle, she bit him multiple times and tore his clothes.
In a statement circulating on social media, Michael narrated what happened: “I had just left Hall 19 where Dr Ebekue was teaching.
“Walking along the passage, I saw a girl doing a video with her phone (she had placed the phone on the window hood and was striking poses in the middle of the walkway). tapping her slightly, I asked her to excuse me as I walked past.
“After about 2 or 3 steps, I heard her say, “who does this man think he is?” I walked back to ascertain first if she was my student and second to make sure she deletes the video showing where I passed.
“I then demanded and reached for her phone only to be bitten by the girl on both arms in quick succession. I then held on to her left hand so she wouldn’t get away.
“That was when she really lost it; she tore my clothes, slapped and scratched my face and generally went berserk on me all which I received with calm to my own admiration if I do say so myself.”
