The concerned youths of Ogbunike community have condemned the mob attack on Prof. Ifeanyi Sunny Odinye, Head of the Department of Chinese Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, describing it as “jungle justice.”
In a press statement released on Monday, the group said it was shocked by a viral video showing Prof. Odinye being assaulted and humiliated on campus.
The statement, signed by Convener Chief Okey Nwosu and Secretary Chibuike Uloka, MNIPR, said no allegation, whether proven or unproven, justifies mob action. It noted that Nigerian law guarantees every citizen the right to a fair hearing.
Prof. Odinye is described as the first indigenous Professor of Chinese Language in Nigeria and Africa. The youths said he has spent decades pioneering Chinese language teaching, mentoring students, and bringing honour to Ogbunike, Anambra State and Nigeria. They cited accounts from colleagues portraying him as a diligent academic and family-oriented man.
“We demand a full-scale, transparent investigation into what actually happened,” the statement read. “A man who has given his career to developing young people deserves better than to be tried and punished by a crowd on the strength of an unverified claim.”
The community listed four demands:
Immediate arrest and prosecution of all persons who participated in the assault.
Thorough and impartial investigation by university and security authorities, with community and family representatives allowed to observe.
Urgent medical attention for Prof. Odinye and full accountability for his safety.
Due process for everyone involved, with restraint urged on social media until investigations are concluded.
The youths said Ogbunike stands firmly behind Prof. Odinye and expressed confidence that the university and security agencies will act swiftly. They added that the community reserves the right to take further legitimate steps if there is any failure to protect him or pursue justice.
About Author
