The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State, has suspended Professor Ifeanyi Odinye of the Department of Chinese Studies for three months amid an ongoing investigation into an alleged sexual assault involving a female student.

The suspension followed the submission of a preliminary report by a six-member investigative panel constituted by the university to examine the circumstances surrounding the allegations.

According to the university, the suspension was approved by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ugochukwu Anyaehie. Odinye will receive half of his salary throughout the three-month period.

The institution said the disciplinary measure was linked to alleged violations of its General and Academic Regulations. However, the university stressed that the investigation into the sexual assault allegation has not yet been concluded.

The controversy erupted on August 15, 2026, after students reportedly confronted and assaulted the professor following an allegation that he attempted to sexually assault a female student in his office. A video of the incident subsequently circulated on social media, showing a distressed female student leaving the professor’s office with his clothes.

Odinye was later reportedly seen attempting to leave the university premises in a tricycle while being pursued by some individuals.

Panel Identifies Examination Misconduct Breach

The investigative panel, chaired by Professor Emmanuel Obidimma, Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, has so far examined two of the five issues included in its terms of reference.

One of the preliminary findings concerns an examination misconduct matter involving the student, Chikamso Favour Okechukwu.

The panel reportedly found that the professor did not properly document and submit the examination misconduct case using the prescribed university form.

It also found that a mobile phone allegedly taken from the student during the examination was returned to her on the same day, contrary to the institution’s rules.

Following the finding, the student’s examination misconduct case was referred to the Student Examination Misconduct Committee for further consideration.

Investigation Extended

The university’s Public Relations Officer, Aloysius Attah, said the Vice-Chancellor had granted the panel an additional two weeks to complete its work.

The outstanding areas of investigation include determining whether the alleged sexual harassment actually occurred, identifying those involved in the reported attack on the professor and establishing whether a kidnapping incident was connected to the matter.

The panel is expected to submit its comprehensive report and recommendations to the Vice-Chancellor once the extended investigation is completed.

The university said any further disciplinary measures or possible referral for criminal proceedings would be considered after the final report is received.

Management also assured that the matter would be handled in accordance with due process, fairness and the welfare of both staff and students, while reiterating its commitment to enforcing professional and institutional standards.