UNIZIK expels student for assaulting lecturer in viral TikTok clash

At the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, a female student, Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, was on Friday expelled for attacking a lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, in a confrontation that has sparked widespread reactions both on and off campus.

The altercation, which was caught on video and circulated widely on social media, reportedly occurred when Dr. Okoye interrupted Precious while she was filming a TikTok video on university grounds.

The situation escalated quickly, leading to a physical assault that shocked students and faculty members alike.

In response to the incident, the university authorities launched an investigation, with the Student Disciplinary Committee taking up the case. Their findings, described as a clear breach of institutional conduct, led to an official expulsion order signed by the Acting Registrar, Mr. Victor I. Modebelu.

Read Also: Nasarawa uncovers 2,277 illegal teachers, as Gov Sule threatens prosecution

Dated February 13, 2025, the letter cited Regulation 4 (SDR) of the university’s disciplinary code, emphasizing that Precious’s actions constituted gross misconduct.

“This act is a violation of the Students Disciplinary Regulations, and the Ag. Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of the University Senate, has approved your immediate expulsion from Nnamdi Azikiwe University,” the letter stated.

The university further directed Precious to vacate the school premises immediately and return any property belonging to the institution.

The case has reignited discussions on student behavior, digital distractions, and the growing influence of social media in academic environments. While some students expressed concern over the severity of the punishment, others argued that maintaining discipline within the institution was paramount.

“This is beyond just a TikTok video. It’s about respect and decorum,” said a faculty member who preferred to remain anonymous. “Universities must remain centers of learning and discipline, not places where students attack their lecturers over social media trends.”

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now