Nnamdi Azikiwe University Expels Student for Assaulting Lecturer Amidst Rising Concerns Over Campus Discipline

 Nnamdi Azikiwe University Expels Student for Assaulting Lecturer Amidst Rising Concerns Over Campus Discipline

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has taken a firm stand on academic discipline by expelling Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, a third-year student from the Department of History and International Studies. This decisive action follows her alleged physical assault on Dr. Chukwudi Michael Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, an incident that has since ignited national discourse on student behavior and campus safety.

The Incident: A Confrontation That Spiraled Out of Control

The altercation, which occurred on February 11, 2025, in the Faculty of Arts, reportedly stemmed from a seemingly trivial exchange. Witnesses state that Precious was recording a TikTok video in a hallway when Dr. Okoye, attempting to pass by, tapped her on the shoulder and politely asked for space. What should have been a brief and routine encounter rapidly escalated into a violent confrontation. Eyewitnesses report that Precious reacted aggressively, launching a physical attack that resulted in multiple bite wounds on Dr. Okoye and damage to his clothing.

The scuffle, captured on video, swiftly went viral on social media, drawing widespread reactions from students, faculty members, and the general public. The incident has since become a flashpoint for discussions on the erosion of respect within academic institutions. (Punch NG)

University’s Verdict: Zero Tolerance for Indiscipline

In response, UNIZIK’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining discipline and ethical standards. “This university upholds the values of mutual respect and decorum. Actions that undermine the integrity of our academic community will not be tolerated,” he declared.

Following an extensive review by the university’s disciplinary committee, the administration resolved to expel Precious, a decision that has been met with a mixture of commendation and criticism. While some applaud the institution for taking a firm stance, others argue that broader systemic issues within the educational sector must also be addressed. (Punch NG)

NANS’ Position: A Call for Responsibility and Reflection

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has also weighed in on the controversy. In a statement, NANS Senate President, Babatunde Akinteye, condemned the attack and urged students to exercise self-expression responsibly. “Freedom of expression, including social media use, must be balanced with responsibility and respect for others. Incidents like this tarnish the reputation of the student community,” he remarked, calling for reflection and the reinforcement of conflict resolution mechanisms within universities. (Punch NG)

A Broader Context: A Growing Trend of Campus Misconduct

The case of Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious is not an isolated event. Universities across Nigeria have increasingly faced incidents of student misconduct and faculty assaults. In 2021, the University of Ilorin expelled a student, Salaudeen Waliu Aanuoluwa, for attacking a female lecturer, further highlighting the urgent need for stricter disciplinary frameworks and a cultural shift towards respect within academia. (Tribune Online)

A Defining Moment for Academic Institutions

The expulsion of Precious serves as a powerful statement on the importance of discipline, mutual respect, and accountability within higher education. While UNIZIK has taken a definitive step in addressing this particular case, the broader conversation on student behavior, faculty-student relationships, and institutional disciplinary structures must continue. Universities must foster environments that uphold decorum while implementing proactive measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

As this case continues to reverberate across educational circles, it serves as a cautionary tale and a call to action for institutions, students, and policymakers alike. The ultimate goal remains the creation of academic spaces where safety, respect, and integrity are non-negotiable pillars of learning and growth.