Nnamdi Azikiwe University Launches Probe Into Viral Lecturer-Student Altercation, Vows Accountability

Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) has initiated a formal investigation into a heated altercation between Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies, and Goddy Mbakwe Precious, a third-year History student, following a viral video that sparked widespread outrage on social media. The institution has pledged transparency and justice, emphasizing its commitment to upholding "disciplinary and ethical standards."

Incident Overview:

The incident, which occurred on February 11, 2025, in a campus hallway, was captured in a video showing Dr. Okoye attempting to navigate past the student, who was recording a video. The footage depicts physical contact, followed by a heated exchange where the student accused the lecturer of pushing her. The situation escalated into a physical struggle, with the student later alleging harassment and phone damage in a social media post. The video, however, does not conclusively corroborate all her claims, including the destruction of her phone or explicit harassment.

University’s Official Response:

In a press release signed by Ag. Head of Information and Public Relations, Ngelita Louis O., the university confirmed the incident and announced a "full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation" ordered by Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu. The statement reiterated NAU’s core values of "discipline, self-reliance, and excellence," vowing that "appropriate actions and sanctions" would follow based on findings. The university urged calm, stating, "There is no place for indiscipline or misconduct within our community".

Public Reaction and Social Media Frenzy: 

The video has ignited fierce debates online, with many users condemning the lecturer’s actions and calling for accountability, while others cautioned against rushing to judgment without evidence. Student groups have demanded stronger safeguards against harassment, citing systemic power imbalances in academia. Meanwhile, Dr. Okoye’s colleagues and some students have appealed for restraint, emphasizing the need for due process.

Broader Context for Nigerian Universities:

The incident highlights recurring challenges in Nigerian higher education, including opaque disciplinary processes, inadequate harassment policies, and the influence of social media in shaping institutional responses. Failure to address such cases transparently risks normalizing misconduct and deepening student mistrust.

Next Steps:

The university has not disclosed a timeline for the investigation but assured updates "as necessary." Security personnel and student representatives are expected to testify. Both Dr. Okoye and Ms. Precious have been advised to refrain from public commentary during the probe.

As Nnamdi Azikiwe University navigates this crisis, its handling of the investigation will serve as a litmus test for accountability in Nigerian academia. Stakeholders nationwide await outcomes, hoping for a precedent that balances justice for victims with fairness for the accused.