The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, has suspended a lecturer from the Department of Chinese Studies over alleged misconduct involving a student.
The lecturer, Professor Ifeanyi Odinye, was suspended for a period of three months for alleged violation of the university's General and Academic Regulations.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ugochukwu Anyaehie, approved the suspension with half salary in the first instance, following the recommendations of a six-man special investigative panel which submitted its preliminary report on August 21, 2026.
The student involved in the incident has been referred to the student's examination misconduct committee for further review.
The incident, which occurred on August 15, reportedly led to a confrontation between the lecturer and some students on campus. A video clip of the incident circulated online, drawing public attention to the matter.
According to the university, the investigative panel was set up to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure fair hearing for all parties involved.
The Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Aloysius Attah, said in a statement that the Vice Chancellor has also extended the duration of the committee for another two weeks to enable the team complete its assignment.
DailyVista247 gathered that the panel, chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, dealt with two issues out of the five terms of reference in its preliminary report.
According to the PRO, the panel found that the lecturer contravened Section 5.8.3 of the General and Academic Regulations of Nnamdi Azikiwe University by failing to record and submit the case of examination misconduct against the student on the prescribed form.
The panel also noted that the offending phone recovered during the examination was returned to the student on the same day, in disregard to Section 5.8.1(iv) of the university's regulations.
He explained that the other three issues for determination by the committee are to be addressed within the two weeks. The issues include whether there was harassment, identifying persons involved in the assault on the lecturer, and whether there was any incident of unlawful detention in the matter.
The committee members are expected to conclude their findings with recommendations to the Vice Chancellor before a final verdict is reached, including possible further administrative actions.
He added that the Vice Chancellor reiterated the stance of his administration on prioritization of staff and student welfare and zero tolerance for unethical practices, while upholding the principles of transparency and fair hearing.
The university management urged students and staff to remain calm and allow the investigative process to be completed, assuring that the institution remains committed to maintaining discipline and academic integrity.
