ASUU Breaks Silence After UNIZIK Student Assaults Lecturer, Shares Its Observation
- Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) has praised lecturer Chukwudi Okoye for his professionalism after being assaulted by student Precious Mbakwe
- The incident occurred on February 11, when Mbakwe confronted and physically attacked Dr. Okoye, who did not retaliate
- Following an investigation, the university expelled Mbakwe for misconduct, with ASUU applauding Dr. Okoye's maturity and the Acting Vice-Chancellor's swift response
Awka, Nigeria – The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) has commended lecturer Chukwudi Okoye for his professional conduct and display of maturity when a student, Precious Mbakwe, assaulted him recently within the institution.
The incident occurred on February 11, at the Faculty of Arts building, popularly known as UNIZIK.
Source: Getty Images
Details of the incident
Legit.ng reported that Mbakwe, a third-year History and International Studies student, allegedly assaulted Dr. Okoye after he interrupted her while she was recording a video in the university corridor.
Videos reviewed by this newspaper show Ms Mbakwe recording a video when Okoye, a lecturer at the Department of Theatre Arts, walked past, tapped her, and said “excuse me.”
The student reacted with disdain, and the confrontation escalated, drawing attention from students and officials.
The videos showed Ms Mbakwe tearing Okoye's clothes and biting him, while Okoye did not retaliate.
The university management subsequently set up a committee to investigate the incident.
On February 14, the committee found the student guilty of misconduct and violating the university’s regulations. Consequently, the university authorities expelled Ms Mbakwe from the institution with immediate effect.
ASUU praises restraint and professionalism
ASUU, in a statement on February 14, praised the lecturer for his exemplary display of maturity and civility in the face of the assault.
The statement, signed by ASUU Chairperson Kingsley Ubaoji and Secretary Joseph Onyejiaka, read, “Dr. Okoye’s restraint and composure in the aftermath of the incident are a testament to his character and professionalism. His actions have brought honour to himself, our union, and the university community at large.”
Vice-Chancellor’s swift response
ASUU also lauded the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Joseph Ikechebelu, for his swift and decisive action to address the incident.
“His prompt response has reassured staff of their protection and underscored the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment,” the union stated.
ASUU stressed its commitment to promoting and defending the rights and interests of its members while advocating for a safe and conducive academic environment in the university.
UNIZIK speaks on student who assaulted lecturer
Legit.ng reported that authorities of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, have commenced an investigation into an incident involving biting and fighting between a lecturer and a student.
The altercation occurred on February 11 at the Faculty of Arts, involving a female student and a lecturer identified as Dr Chukwudi Michael.
The dispute reportedly began over the interruption of a video recording that the student was making.
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Source: Legit.ng
