Chinedum Treasure
A lecturer in the Department of Chinese Studies in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra state, Prof. Ifeanyi Sunny Odinye has been suspended by the Institution.
Odinye’s three months suspension was approved by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Bond Anyaehie with half salary on the first instance.
According to a statement by Director, Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Comrade Aloysius Attah, the decision followed recommendations of the 6- man Special Investigative Panel which submitted its preliminary report on Friday, 21st August 2026.
The University Management had earlier directed immediate, comprehensive and impartial investigation over alleged physical assault and attack on the suspected lecturer following alleged attempted sexual misconduct involving a female student of the University.
It also condemned the resort to violence, self-help, or any form of jungle justice under any circumstance.
Attah said the Panel indicted Odinye for contravening Sections 5.8.3 and 5.8.1(iv) of the General and Academic Regulations (GAR) of the University.
He also disclosed that the student involved in the unfortunate incident, Chikamso Favour Okechukwu has been referred to the student’s examination misconduct committee, according to the VC’s directive.
“The Vice Chancellor has also extended the duration of the committee for another two weeks to enable the team complete their assignment and address in full, their five point terms of reference.
“The Panel, Chaired by Prof. Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost, College of Postgraduate Studies, in their preliminary report which dealt on two issues out of the five for determination , indicted Prof Odinye for contravening Section 5.8.3 of the General and Academic Regulations (GAR) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University by failing to not only record and submit the case of examination misconduct against Chikamso Favour Okechukwu on the prescribed Examination Misconduct Report Form but also gave back the offending phone recovered during the examination to the student on the same day in total disregard to section 5.8.1(iv) of the GAR.
“Other three issues for determination by the committee which shall be addressed within the two weeks extended time frame included “whether there was sexual harassment, identities of the persons involved in the assault meted to Prof. Odinye and whether there was any incident of kidnapping in the matter”.
“The committee members are expected to conclude their findings with recommendations to the Vice Chancellor before a final verdict including possible criminal prosecution is initiated.
“The Vice Chancellor reiterates the stance of his administration’s priotisation of staff/ student’s welfare and zero tolerance to unethical practices while upholding the principles of transparency and fair hearing,” the statement reads in part.
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