The management of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State has launched a full-scale investigation into an altercation between a female student and a lecturer.
The incident, reportedly occurred on Tuesday, at the faculty of arts, and has subsequently, gained traction on social media platforms.
Reports indicate that the conflict occurred when the lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye of the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, interrupted a third-year student, Goddy Mbakwe Precious, while she was recording a TikTok video.
The encounter quickly escalated into a physical confrontation, during which the female student allegedly bit the lecturer multiple times and tore his clothes.
In a statement issued by the acting Head of Information, Public Relations, and Protocol, Njelita Louis, the university condemned the altercation and assured the public of a thorough and unbiased investigation.
“The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has been made aware of a disturbing incident involving Dr. Chukwudi Okoye and a student. The matter is being taken very seriously.
“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 Ikechebelu, has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the matter,” the statement read.
The university emphasized its commitment to discipline and decorum, assuring that appropriate actions will be taken based on the outcome of the probe.
A viral video circulating on social media captures the moments leading up to the incident.
The footage shows the female student dancing near the entrance of a campus building, while being filmed. Dr. Okoye, attempting to pass through the walkway, reportedly tapped her on the shoulder to make way for him.
The student, seemingly offended, was heard saying, “Imagine! Why would he touch me like that?”
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According to the lecturer’s account, he overheard the student’s comment and returned to confront her.
Realizing she was still recording, he attempted to retrieve the phone to ensure that he was not captured in the video. This led to a struggle, during which the student allegedly bit him multiple times and tore his clothes.
Dr. Okoye later detailed the incident in a statement, describing how the student “lost control” and attacked him.
“I had just left hall 19 when I saw the student making a video in the middle of the walkway. I tapped her slightly to excuse myself as I walked past.
“After taking a few steps, I heard her say; who does this man think he is? I returned to verify if she was my student and to ensure she deleted any video showing me.
“When I reached for her phone, she bit me on both arms in quick succession. She then tore my clothes, slapped and scratched my face, and went completely berserk,” he narrated.
The university urged all concerned parties and the general public to remain calm, while the investigation unfolds.
“We are committed to upholding discipline and decorum, and we will ensure that appropriate actions and sanctions are taken based on the outcome of the investigation,” the institution stated.