UNIZIK Expels 300 Level Student : A Wake-Up Call for Discipline in Academic Institutions

In a stark reminder of the university’s zero-tolerance policy for violence and misconduct, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, popularly known as UNIZIK, has expelled a 300-level female student after she was found guilty of assaulting a lecturer from the Department of Theater and Film Studies. The decision was made public on Friday, February 14, 2025, by the university’s Acting Registrar, Victor Modebelu.

The expulsion follows a thorough investigation by the University’s Student Disciplinary Committee, which determined that the student, identified as Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, had violated the university’s Student Disciplinary Regulations, particularly Regulation 4, which pertains to maintaining decorum and respect on campus.

The incident that led to Chimamaka’s expulsion took place in the Department of Theater and Film Studies, where she physically assaulted a lecturer in the course of an altercation. While specific details of the confrontation have not been fully disclosed, the university emphasized that such acts of violence are intolerable and undermine the academic environment.

Victor Modebelu, in his statement, highlighted that the university has a responsibility to ensure that both students and faculty are able to work in a safe and respectful atmosphere, free from harassment or physical abuse.

“The Acting Vice-Chancellor, consequently, on behalf of the University Senate, approved the Committee’s recommendation that you be expelled. You are hereby expelled from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka,” the statement read, leaving little room for ambiguity on the institution’s stance against violence.

UNIZIK’s decision to expel the 300-level student underscores the university’s unwavering commitment to maintaining discipline and protecting the integrity of its academic community. The expulsion is seen as a significant statement of the institution’s resolve to maintain a campus environment where respect, professionalism, and academic focus are paramount.

READ ALSO:Unizik pledges justice as viral video shows student assaulting lecturer

While many members of the academic community have expressed their support for the decision, there are concerns about the broader implications for student behavior and the need for preventative measures.

For some, the expulsion is seen as a necessary response to a growing concern about violence on campuses. “This is a clear message to all students that violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” said a faculty member who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s essential for students to understand that their actions have consequences, especially when it comes to respecting the people who are there to teach and guide them.”

The UNIZIK expulsion incident brings to light the broader issue of discipline in higher education institutions. It raises critical questions about how universities can balance academic freedom and student rights with the need to maintain order and respect within the campus community.

Many argue that while students should be given the opportunity to express themselves and engage in robust debate, any form of violence or abuse should not be tolerated. Academic institutions, which are designed to foster intellectual growth and collaboration, must remain safe spaces for learning and teaching.

Advertisement

Chimamaka’s expulsion is likely to serve as a precedent for how the university addresses future cases of violence or misconduct. However, it also raises important discussions about how universities can prevent such incidents from occurring in the first place.

As UNIZIK moves forward with this decisive action, it is expected that the institution will focus on fostering a culture of mutual respect between students and faculty. The university has already indicated that it will intensify efforts to prevent any recurrence of such incidents by reviewing its student conduct policies and providing more educational programs on the importance of respect and professionalism on campus.

The university’s management has also emphasized that the wellbeing of both students and faculty is a top priority, ensuring that all members of the UNIZIK community can continue to thrive in a supportive and secure environment.

The expulsion of Chimamaka Precious is not just a singular disciplinary action but a broader reaffirmation of Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s commitment to academic excellence and the preservation of a harmonious learning environment. By taking a strong stance against student violence, UNIZIK sends a powerful message that misconduct will have severe consequences, reinforcing the importance of mutual respect in educational spaces.

While this unfortunate event may have lasting repercussions for the student involved, it serves as a vital lesson for other members of the UNIZIK community, encouraging them to engage in positive, respectful interactions that align with the values of the institution.

As Nnamdi Azikiwe University continues to uphold its standards of discipline, the expulsion of this student may mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to creating a safe and supportive academic environment for all.