The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) Awka, has ordered a full-scale, and transparent investigation into the alleged incident involving Precious Mbakwe, third-year student, and Chukwudi Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies.
This was made known in an internal memo signed by Njelita Louis, the head of information, public relations and protocol of the university with Ref. No: NAU DIPR/71, dated February 11, 2025 sighted by BusinessDay where the management expressed with displeasure the disturbing incident being circulated in the social media.
“The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) has been made aware of a disturbing incident involving Chukwudi Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, and Precious Mbakwe, a third year student in the Department of History and International Studies.
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The incident which has gained significant attention on social media is being taken very seriously by the university authorities.
In line with our core values of discipline, self-reliance, and excellence, and in adherence to the principles of fair hearing, equity and justice, Joseph Ikechebelu, the acting vice-chancellor has ordered a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the matter,” the statement read in part.
The university authorities urge all concerned parties and members of the public to remain calm as they diligently pursue the truth.
“The university is committed to upholding discipline and decorum, and we will ensure that appropriate actions and sanctions are taken based on the outcome of the investigation.
“Nnamdi Azikiwe University remains an institution of learning that upholds moral and ethical standards. There is no place for indiscipline, misconduct or any form of unacceptable behavior within our community,” the management stated.
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According to some eyewitness report, “The student was dancing around the corridor while another person was making her video, when the lecturer, in an attempt to pass, tapped her on the shoulder and said, ‘excuse me’ as he passed behind her.
However, the dancing female student who seemed not happy with the way the lecturer touched reacted with displeasure; saying, “Can you imagine how he just hit me?”
In fore of this, both parties were involved in a physical confrontation, grabbing one another’s clothes, and biting.
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