By Springs News NG Media Limited
February 16, 2025

The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) has officially explained the reason behind the expulsion of Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, a third-year student from the Department of History and International Studies.

What Happened Between the Student and the Lecturer?

The controversy began after a video of Precious physically assaulting Dr. Chukwudi Michael-Okoye, a lecturer in the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, went viral.

The incident, which took place on February 11, showed Dr. Michael-Okoye walking past Precious as she recorded herself in a university hallway. As he lightly tapped her shoulder to pass, Precious reacted angrily, muttering, “Imagine, he just hit me.” What started as a verbal complaint quickly escalated into a physical altercation.

The footage captured the visibly irritated student attempting to attack the lecturer while bystanders stepped in to restrain her. Disturbingly, Dr. Michael-Okoye was seen with bite marks on his hand, which heightened concerns about the severity of the assault.

University Investigation and Expulsion

Following the incident, UNIZIK’s management took swift action. The university’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, announced that a disciplinary committee had been set up to investigate the matter.

Both Precious and Dr. Michael-Okoye were invited to provide their accounts of what transpired. After a thorough review, the committee found that Precious had violated the institution’s disciplinary regulations, specifically Regulation 4 (SDR).

“The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, on behalf of the university senate, has approved the immediate expulsion of Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, based on the committee’s findings and recommendations,” the university’s statement read.

UNIZIK Maintains Zero Tolerance for Misconduct

The university emphasized that it would not condone indiscipline, violence, or any form of misconduct.

“In line with our core values of discipline, self-reliance, and excellence, and in adherence to the principles of fair hearing, equity, and justice, the Acting Vice-Chancellor has ensured a full-scale, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the matter,” the statement added.

UNIZIK reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful academic environment, warning that any behavior compromising the institution’s integrity would be met with decisive action.

Precious Reacts to Her Expulsion

Before her expulsion, Precious had spoken out about the incident, claiming that she did not realize Dr. Michael-Okoye was a lecturer. She alleged that the confrontation started when he “pushed” her while she was recording her video. According to her, the situation escalated when the lecturer tried to seize her phone.

Despite her claims, the university’s disciplinary board upheld its findings, maintaining that her actions warranted expulsion.

The case has sparked debates on social media, with some condemning Precious’s behavior while others call for deeper discussions on student-lecturer relations and conflict resolution within university settings.

Boost Your Business with Springs News NG!

Advertise your products and services with Springs News NG at incredibly affordable rates. Reach a wider audience and take your business to the next level!

For Advert Inquiries, Call: 07039490464