The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has suspended a professor in the Department of Chinese Studies, Prof. Ifeanyi Sunny Odinye, for three months over alleged sexual misconduct and administrative violations.
The suspension, approved by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Bond Anyaehie, follows the submission of a preliminary report by a six-member Special Investigative Panel chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies.
Background of the incident
The action comes two weeks after a viral video surfaced showing Prof. Odinye being assaulted and stripped by students. Reports indicated that the physical altercation occurred after he allegedly attempted to exploit a female student, Chikamso Favour Okechukwu, whom he had previously caught engaging in examination malpractice.
Following the initial findings, the university management also referred Okechukwu to the Students’ Examination Misconduct Committee for further investigation into her alleged academic infraction.
Preliminary findings and regulatory breaches
According to a statement released on Monday, August 24, 2026, by the university’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Aloysius Attah, the preliminary report addressed two key terms of reference:
Failure to report misconduct: The panel found Prof. Odinye in violation of Section 5.8.3 of the university’s General and Academic Regulations (GAR) for failing to formally record and submit the examination malpractice incident using the mandatory report form.
Improper handling of evidence: The lecturer breached Section 5.8.1(iv) of the GAR by returning the mobile phone confiscated during the examination to the student on the very same day.
Ongoing investigation and next steps
The investigative panel has been granted a two-week extension to conclude its findings on the remaining three terms of reference: establishing whether sexual harassment occurred, identifying the individuals involved in assaulting the lecturer, and determining if any kidnapping attempt took place.
The university stated that the committee’s final recommendations will be submitted to the Vice Chancellor to determine ultimate disciplinary actions or potential criminal prosecution.
Reaffirming the administration’s stance, the Vice Chancellor emphasised a zero-tolerance policy toward unethical practices while assuring a transparent process and fair hearing for all parties involved.
Read Also: UNIZIK student jumps from three-storey building under substance influence, d1es
