he National Association of Nigerian Students, on Wednesday, condemned the reported incident of assault at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria, where a student, Precious Goddy, physically assaulted a lecturer, Dr Chukwudi Okoye, over a TikTok recording.
NANS, in a statement by its Senate President, Babatunde Akinteye, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, said the association had always been at the forefront of advocating students’ rights, as well as equally upholding discipline, respect for authority, and adherence to the laws governing the institutions.
He noted that acts of violence and misconduct have no place in academic institutions nationwide, warning students to always respect constituted authorities.
Akinteye said, “NANS has always been at the forefront of advocating students’ rights, academic freedom, and a conducive learning environment.
“However, we equally uphold discipline, respect for authority, and adherence to the laws governing our institutions. It is in this light that we strongly condemn the reported incident at UNIZIK, where a student physically assaulted a lecturer over a TikTok recording.
“Acts of violence and misconduct have no place in our academic institutions. Institutions are citadels of learning, built on mutual respect between students and lecturers. While students have the right to self-expression, including the use of social media, such rights must be exercised within the bounds of decorum, responsibility, and respect for others.
“The reported action of the student is an embarrassment to the student body and does not represent the values of the Nigerian student community.
As an association that fights for the rights and welfare of students, we must also make it unequivocally clear that we do not support any student who violates the law, disrespects lecturers, or engages in acts that tarnish the image of the academic community.”
The Senate President stressed that NANS stood for responsible student leadership and discipline and that it would not hesitate to call out any action that contradicts these principles.
“In light of this incident, we call on the management of UNIZIK to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation to establish the facts of the case. Due diligence must be observed, and all parties involved should be given a fair hearing.
“However, if the student is found guilty, appropriate sanctions should be applied in line with the institution’s regulations to serve as a deterrent to others.”
He explained further that the academic environment must be preserved as a space of respect, learning, and professional engagement.
Akinteye therefore urged students nationwide to always channel their grievances through the appropriate quarters, and avoid any form of misconduct that could undermine their future.
“We trust that the university management will handle this matter fairly, ensuring that justice is served in a manner that upholds the integrity of our educational institutions,” he added.
Source: Punch News
