Nekede Polytechnic suspends lecturer over assault on student

The Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, has suspended a facilitator, Mr. Okoroafor Ifeanyichukwu, after a viral video showed him assaulting a male student.  

In a suspension notice dated March 14, 2025, and referenced FPN/TEDC/80/1, the institution stated that Okoroafor’s suspension would remain in effect pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident, which occurred on March 13 during an entrepreneurship training session.

The letter, signed by the Director of the Technical and Entrepreneurship Development Centre (TEDC), Dr. Okoye P.C., was also copied to the Rector, the Dean of Student Affairs, and the Student Union Government.

A video surfaced late Thursday showing the suspended facilitator slapping a male student, Chidera, and then kicking him, causing him to fall heavily onto a cemented walkway, damaging his phone. The facilitator then walked away.

Our correspondent noted that the lecturer, Okoroafor, sent an apology message to Chidera, which read: “Dear Chidera, LETTER OF APOLOGY TO MR CHIDERA. I am writing to offer my sincerest apologies for my behavior towards you. I am deeply sorry for the way I treated you, and I realize that my actions were unacceptable and hurtful. As your teacher, I should have provided a safe and supportive learning environment, but instead, I bullied and intimidated you.

“My behavior was not only unprofessional, but it also caused you harm and distress. I want you to know that I take full responsibility for my actions, and I am truly sorry for the pain and suffering I caused you. I understand that my apology cannot erase the past, but I hope it can be a step towards healing and moving forward.

“Please know that I am committed to changing my behavior and ensuring that all my students feel safe, respected, and supported in the classroom. I will do everything in my power to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. If you are willing, I would like to meet with you to discuss how I can make amends and support you in any way possible. Please let me know if this is something you would be open to, and we can arrange a time and place that works for you. Once again, I offer my sincerest apologies for my behavior. You deserved better from me, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. Sincerely, Ifeanyichukwu.”

Netizens shared the suspension letter on social media, commending the institution’s swift action, though some questioned the lack of a fair hearing.