Nnamdi Azikiwe University Expels Student Over Lecturer Assault, Cites Gross Misconduct

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) has expelled Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, a third-year History and International Studies student, following a disciplinary committee’s finding of “gross misconduct” for assaulting a lecturer in the Department of Theatre and Film Studies. The expulsion, effective immediately, was approved by the Acting Vice-Chancellor on February 13, 2025, underscoring the institution’s strict adherence to its disciplinary regulations.

Details of the Expulsion:

In a formal expulsion letter signed by Acting Registrar Mr. Victor I. Modebelu, the university stated that the student violated Regulation 4 of the Student Disciplinary Regulations (SDR). The decision followed a review by the Student Disciplinary Committee, which concluded that the assault constituted a severe breach of conduct. The student has been directed to vacate the university premises immediately and return all university property in their possession.

Background on the Incident:

The expulsion stems from a widely publicized February 11 altercation between the student and the lecturer, which went viral on social media. While initial reports highlighted conflicting accounts of the incident, the disciplinary committee’s findings sided with the lecturer’s version, culminating in the student’s expulsion. The university has not disclosed further details about the assault or evidence reviewed during the proceedings.

University’s Statement:

The expulsion letter emphasized the institution’s zero-tolerance stance toward misconduct, stating, “The Ag. Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the University Senate, approved the Committee’s recommendation [for expulsion].” Copies of the decision were circulated to key administrators, including the Deans of Student Affairs and Faculty of Arts, as well as safety and legal officers.

Reactions and Implications:

The expulsion reinforces NAU’s commitment to enforcing its disciplinary policies amid heightened scrutiny of student-lecturer relations. However, the decision may reignite debates over transparency, as the university has yet to publicly address lingering questions about the incident’s specifics or the student’s right to appeal.

Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious’ expulsion marks a decisive response to the altercation, signaling NAU’s prioritization of institutional decorum. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violating campus conduct codes, even as critics call for clearer grievance mechanisms. Further updates will follow if the student or university issues additional statements.