- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, expelled Chimamaka Precious Goddy-Mbakwe for physically assaulting Dr. Chukwudi Okoye
- The university emphasized its commitment to discipline, stating that violence against lecturers would not be tolerated
- While some students supported the expulsion as necessary for campus order, others called for fairness in addressing student grievances against lecturers
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has expelled a female student, Chimamaka Precious Goddy-Mbakwe, for physically assaulting a lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, of the Department of Theatre and Film Studies.
The expulsion was approved by the Acting Vice-Chancellor following the recommendations of the Student Disciplinary Committee.
The expulsion letter, dated February 13, 2025, and signed by the Acting Registrar, Mr. Victor I. Modebelu, described the act as "gross misconduct and a violation of the Students’ Disciplinary Regulations, particularly Regulation 4 (SDR)."
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Immediate eviction and property return
The university’s decision takes immediate effect, with Goddy-Mbakwe instructed to vacate the school premises without delay.
The letter also directed her to return any university property in her possession.
"The Ag. Vice-Chancellor has, on behalf of the University Senate, approved the Committee's recommendation that you be expelled, and you are hereby expelled from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka," the expulsion notice stated.
University emphasizes zero tolerance for indiscipline
The university authorities reiterated their commitment to upholding discipline and maintaining a safe academic environment for both staff and students.
A senior official in the university administration, who preferred anonymity, emphasized that UNIZIK has zero tolerance for any form of violence against staff members.
"This decision serves as a strong warning to other students. No form of indiscipline or assault on lecturers will be tolerated within our institution," the official said.
Reactions from university community
The expulsion has sparked mixed reactions from students and faculty members.
While some students expressed sympathy for the expelled student, others supported the decision, stating that such disciplinary measures are necessary to maintain order on campus.
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A student from the Faculty of Arts, who identified himself as Emmanuel, said:
"While we condemn any act of violence, I hope the university will also look into cases where students face harassment from lecturers. Fairness should be applied on both sides."
Meanwhile, Dr. Okoye, the assaulted lecturer, has yet to publicly comment on the expulsion.
However, sources close to him noted that he was satisfied with the university’s decision, describing it as "a step in the right direction."
Calls for more student awareness on conduct
As the news of the expulsion spreads, some lecturers and students have called for increased awareness of the Students’ Disciplinary Regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
A lecturer in the Department of History and International Studies remarked:
"It is important for students to be well informed about disciplinary regulations to avoid situations that could jeopardize their academic future."
With the expulsion now finalized, Goddy-Mbakwe’s fate is sealed unless she seeks redress through legal or administrative means.
Ex-student of assaulted UNZIK lecturer speaks
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a former student of the assaulted UNIZIK lecturer had reacted to the viral incident.
The ex-student took sides with the lecturer, describing him as one more than a teacher but also a mentor and a father to people like him.
