The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the recent assault of a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) by a student allegedly over a TikTok recording. In a statement issued in Ibadan, NANS Senate President, Babatunde Akinteye, reiterated the association’s commitment to students’ rights but emphasized that violence and misconduct have no place in academic institutions. He stressed the importance of discipline, respect for authority, and adherence to school regulations, warning that such actions tarnish the image of the student community.
Akinteye acknowledged that students have the right to self-expression, including the use of social media, but insisted that such freedoms must be exercised responsibly and with respect for others. He described the incident as an embarrassment, reaffirming that NANS would not support any student who engages in lawlessness or disrespects lecturers. He urged UNIZIK’s management to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, ensuring all parties involved receive a fair hearing. However, he maintained that if the student is found guilty, appropriate disciplinary measures should be enforced to deter future occurrences.
Reaffirming NANS’ stance on responsible student leadership, Akinteye emphasized that academic institutions must remain spaces of mutual respect, learning, and professionalism. He called on students to uphold the values of discipline and decorum while engaging with authorities, stressing that preserving the integrity of the educational system is a collective responsibility.