The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) commended lecturer Chukwudi Okoye for handling the situation professionally.
The incident involved Precious Mbakwe, a third-year student studying History and International Studies. She was recording a video when Mr. Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts, passed by and tapped her, saying “excuse me.” Mbakwe responded angrily, telling someone nearby, “Can you imagine, he just hit me.”
Subsequent videos captured her confrontation with Mr. Okoye, resulting in a tumultuous scene that attracted the attention of fellow students and school officials. In the footage, she is depicted ripping a portion of his traditional attire while clinging to him; notably, he did not retaliate. Later images revealed bite marks on his arms, and he was subsequently seen receiving medical treatment at the school clinic.
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The university formed a committee to thoroughly investigate the incident. After a comprehensive review, the committee determined that Mbakwe had committed misconduct, leading to her immediate expulsion from the institution.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) released a statement commending Mr. Okoye for his “exemplary display of maturity and civility” during the incident. In a jointly signed statement, the union’s Chairperson, Kingsley Ubaoji, and Secretary, Joseph Onyejiaka, emphasized that Dr. Okoye’s self-restraint not only reflects positively on him but also on the entire university community.
ASUU also recognized Acting Vice-Chancellor Joseph Ikechebelu for his quick response to the incident, which reassured staff about their safety and emphasized the university’s commitment to a respectful learning environment. The union reiterated its commitment to supporting its members while promoting a safe academic atmosphere.
