A House of Representatives member, Bamidele Salam, has appealed to Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) to reconsider the expulsion of a student, Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, who was involved in an assault case. The lawmaker described the punishment as too harsh and urged the university to offer her a second chance.
UNIZIK Expels Student for Assaulting Lecturer
On Friday, UNIZIK authorities announced the expulsion of Precious for attacking a lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye, from the Department of Theatre and Film Studies.
A statement by the Acting Registrar, Victor Modebelu, confirmed that the decision was based on the recommendation of the Student Disciplinary Committee, which found the student guilty of gross misconduct under Regulation 4 (SDR) of the university’s disciplinary rules.
“The Ag. Vice-Chancellor has approved the recommendation that you be expelled from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The expulsion takes immediate effect. You are expected to vacate the university premises immediately and return any university property in your possession.”
How the Incident Happened
The incident gained public attention after a video surfaced online on Tuesday, showing Precious confronting and attacking Dr. Okoye.
Reports indicate that the issue began when Okoye interrupted her while she was filming a video in a university hallway. The lecturer reportedly tapped her and said, “Excuse me”, which angered the student.
- In the video, she can be seen reacting aggressively, questioning the lecturer’s action.
- The situation escalated into a physical altercation, with the student tearing his traditional outfit and biting his arm.
- Images online showed bite marks on Dr. Okoye’s arm, and another photo showed him receiving medical treatment.
Rep. Bamidele Salam Appeals for Leniency
Reacting to the incident, Rep. Bamidele Salam shared a personal story from 1992, when he and four other student leaders were expelled from their university for “gross misconduct and insubordination to authority” during the military regime.
He explained that expulsion can destroy a student’s future and pleaded with UNIZIK to reduce the punishment if the student shows remorse and a willingness to change.
“She certainly deserves to be punished, but I don’t like expulsion as a punishment for any student. Expulsion should be commuted to a lesser punishment so that we don’t throw her into the wilderness of life.”
The lawmaker described the student as a “silly girl” and a first-time offender, arguing that rehabilitation is better than outright expulsion.
What Next?
While UNIZIK has taken a firm stance, public reactions remain divided. Some support the expulsion as a deterrent to indiscipline, while others agree with Rep. Salam that a second chance should be considered.
It remains to be seen whether the university will review its decision or uphold the expulsion.
