A lecturer at the Imo State University, Owerri, Dr. Desmond Izunwanne, has been suspended for allegedly assaulting a pregnant student named Ukamaka.
The Deputy Registrar Head of Media and Public Relations, Ralph Njokuobi, made the announcement of the lecturer’s suspension on Wednesday, April 3rd.
In a viral video, Izunwanne was captured slapping the pregnant lady, who had arrived late for his lecture and was not dressed in the appropriate uniform.
News About Nigeria understands that despite her explanation that she had visited the hospital just before the lecture, the lecturer disregarded her explanation and proceeded to slap her multiple times, asking her “what’s your reason for coming to class late?”.
Following the incident, the management of IMSU issued a statement, announcing the immediate suspension of the erring lecturer.
The statement condemned the assault and noted that the university has a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts of violence against students.
The suspension of the lecturer is expected to serve as a deterrent to other lecturers and ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.
The statement read; “It has come to the notice of the Management of Imo State University the viral video circulating the globe about the indecorous actions of a lecturer of the University, Dr. Desmond lzunwanne of the Physiology Department, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences of Imo State University, Owerri against four students of the University.
“Management views the action of the lecturer as barbaric and unbecoming of a person of his position. At the end of the Management meeting held on Tuesday 2 May 2023, Management approved the suspension of the Lecturer Dr. Desmond lzunwanne till further notice and has set up a three-man Disciplinary Committee to unravel the immediate and remote causes that led to his uncouth behaviour.
“The general public and indeed all Human Rights Organizations are hereby implored to allow the University conduct a proper investigation and recommend appropriate sanctions where necessary in line with the staff conditions of service.
“Management will not accept any breach in the academic and moral standards expected of any lecturer irrespective of how highly placed he is in the University and sincerely believe in rules of engagement between lecturers and students.
“The University is on top of the game as it affects the matter under review. Thanks for your understanding and patience.”
